2G internet restored in parts of Jammu and Kashmir

After several days of restrictions on telecommunications in Jammu and Kashmir, Indian authorities have reportedly restarted 2G mobile internet services in as many as five districts in the region.

On August 5, Home Minister Amit Shah told parliament that the president had signed a decree abolishing Article 370 of the constitution giving special autonomy to the Muslim-majority Himalayan region. The decree said the measure came into force "at once". Wide restrictions were put in place immediately, cutting off communications and initiating a shutdown of all operations across Jammu and Kashmir.

New Delhi said then that the sweeping clampdown, enforced by tens of thousands of military reinforcements, was needed because of the "prevailing law and order situation".

All phones, internet services and cable networks were snapped at midnight in the restive Himalayan region of more than seven million people following days of soaring tensions.

Only residents with a "curfew pass" were allowed on the streets.

Indian authorities announced over the past week that restrictions would be lifted in phases and that schools and educational institutions would reopen on August 19.