Srinagar: The government of India has blocked 14 messenger mobile applications that were “largely used” in Jammu and Kashmir for allegedly “spreading militancy” in the union territory.
These mobile applications were used by militants in Kashmir to communicate with their supporters and on-ground workers (OGW), ANI reported quoting sources.
“Agencies keep track of channels used by Overground workers (OGWs) and militants to communicate among themselves. While tracking down one of the communication, agencies found that the mobile application does not have representatives in India and it is difficult to track down activities happening on the app,” the report quoted an official as saying
Thereafter, with the help of other intelligence agencies operating in the valley, a list of such apps was prepared that pose a threat to “national security and do not follow Indian laws”.
After getting the list prepared, the concerned Ministry was informed of the request to ban these mobile applications. These apps have been blocked under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, the official added.
In official communications to higher-ups, the intelligence agencies informed that these apps are spreading militancy in the Valley.
The report quoting sources identified the apps as Crypviser, Enigma, Safeswiss, Wickrme, Mediafire, Briar, BChat, Nandbox, Conion, IMO, Element, Second line, Zangi, and Threema.
