Year 2017 saw more internet shutdowns in J&K than the unrest-hit 2016, with the state becoming major contributor to the disturbing phenomenon in India.

As per the data compiled by the Software Freedom Law Centre (SFLC), a Delhi-based not-for-profit organisation, of the 114 internet blockade instances in India, 53 happened in J&K.

Internet services were shut 25 times in 2017 as compared to 10 internet shutdowns in 2016, highlighting how muzzling the virtual communication has been the go-to strategy for the authorities in the valley.

These 35 times accounted for 66% of the total suspension of internet services in India in the two years.

The longest period of mobile internet blackout happened after the killing of popular militant commander Burhan Wani on July 8 last year. Post-paid mobile internet services were restored in mid-November, while pre-paid services returned on January 30 this year.

According to the data, most of the internet shutdowns have taken place in three south Kashmir districts.

In the year 2015, 2014 and 2013, J&K witnessed five internet shutdowns each and three internet blockades in 2012.