As militants go hi-tech, J&K govt starts registration of cafes

In a bid to stop the use of internet cafes by militants, the Jammu and Kashmir government has begun the registration of all cyber-cafes in the state.

"Cyber cafe owners and network service providers, who provide computer services, including internet access to general public either on payment or free of charge for any purpose, including recreation or amusement, shall register their cyber-cafes and network service," District Development Commissioner (DDC), Udhampur, P K Pole said today.

These steps have been taken as anti-national elements, militants and OGWs are using new technology for communication and spread of hatred and terror, he added.

In September last year, an e-mail claim on High Court blast in New Delhi in which 15 people were killed, was sent by Harkat-ul-Jehadi Islami (HUJI) militants from a cyber cafe in Kishtwar district.

Although there is a decline in militancy, terrorists are using Information Technology through cyber-cafes for the spread of terror messages and for communication with various groups.