Srinagar, October 14: Hours after the restoration of mobile phone network in the restive Valley region, Jammu & Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik said the ban on internet would soon be lifted across the state. The restriction on internet is necessary for security reasons, Malik said, adding that the tough measures enacted by the government is only aimed at preventing unrest and saving lives. Rajnath Singh, on Haryana Campaign Trail, Slams Congress For 'Allowing' UK Arm to Reach Jeremy Corbyn Over Kashmir Issue.

Malik, while speaking to reporters at the sidelines of a police personnel's programme in Kathua, said the Centre should be lauded for the manner in which they have handled the situation. Following the repeal of Article 370, no civilian casualty has been recorded in J&K, he said.

The clampdown on phone services for 72 days is justified as it has led to the "saving of all lives", the Governor said. With phones now being restored, Malik said he is hopeful that Kashmiris would be able to connect with their family members, friends and brethren in all parts of the nation.

"Internet will be restored soon," Malik said, adding that Kashmir is swiftly moving towards normalcy. The mobile phone network has been restored, tourists, trade is picking up pace  and youth from across the state have began connecting with each other.

Notably, a communication blockade was imposed in Jammu & Kashmir since August 4, a day before the Centre abrogated Article 370 and stripped the region of its semi-autonomy. Civil society members across the nation have raised hue and cry against the move, calling it a violation of fundamental rights.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 14, 2019 10:12 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).