Jammu and KashmirtelecommunicationsLieutenant-Governordemocratic governanceUnion government
Opposition Criticizes Centre's Move to Grant L-G Expanded Telecom Powers in Jammu and Kashmir
Published: May 10, 2026
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The Union government has granted Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant-Governor Manoj Sinha expanded authority over the Union Territory's telecommunications sector, including powers to intercept communications, suspend networks, and decrypt data during emergencies under the Telecommunications Act, 2023. The order, issued under Section 20(2) of the Act, enables the L-G administration to issue directives on telecom operations without legislative oversight.
J&K Congress chief Tariq Hameed Karra, legislator from Srinagar, condemned the decision, calling it "another dent on the democratic governance mechanism" in the region. He argued that despite the presence of an elected government, critical powers continue to be concentrated in unelected administrative hands, undermining promises of democratic empowerment. Karra emphasized that extraordinary surveillance and shutdown powers in a region with a history of communication blackouts require democratic accountability.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary also criticized the move, stating, "Handing over telecommunication to the L-G is yet another step — let’s see what they do." He referenced past administrative actions, suggesting a pattern of centralized control during the L-G's tenure. The powers were formally activated days before the public announcement on May 10, 2026.
Opposition leaders have called for a review of the decision, while the Union Home Ministry has not issued a public statement. The L-G's office will exercise the powers effective immediately, with no timeline set for potential legislative scrutiny.