Srinagar, Jan 3 || Police in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district said on Saturday that they have acted against 24 people for violating the ban order on the use of virtual private networks (VPNs).
A police statement issued on Saturday said, “In continuation of efforts to enforce lawful orders and prevent the misuse of digital platforms, Budgam Police have acted against the use of unauthorised Virtual Private Network (VPN) services across the district.
“Following prohibitory orders issued by the District Administration on December 29, 2025, banning unauthorised VPN usage, Budgam Police carried out systematic verification and monitoring.
“During the period from December 29, 2025, to January 2, 2026, 24 individuals were identified for violating these orders. Based on investigation and technical analysis, two FIRs were registered against individuals with adverse terror-related backgrounds, underscoring the security risks posed by the misuse of encrypted platforms.
“Additionally, security proceedings were initiated against 11 individuals, aged between 18 and 40 years, for non-compliance with the prohibitory orders.