During this period, the Virtual Private Network (VPN) comes in handy for residents, allowing them to access government-banned websites, notably social media. The administration was concerned that the usage of social media may jeopardise regional security. Furthermore, the administration said that Pakistani operatives are stirring young on social media and radicalising youth in Kashmir, inciting violence, stone-pelting, and terror actions. He had also joined several WhatsApp groups that promote rumours, radicalise youth, and incite hatred against the Indian state. All of the social media sites were accessed by the accused through the use of 15 separate VPNs.

Source: The Guardian February 18, 2023 11:31 UTC