In Brief
The Supreme Court examined restrictions imposed in Jammu and Kashmir on internet, telecom services, and movement in August 2019. The Court held that freedom of speech and expression, and freedom to practice profession/trade over the internet enjoy constitutional protection under Article 19(1)(a) and (g). Internet suspensions must be temporary, necessary, unavoidable, and proportionate. Orders under Section 144 Criminal Procedure Code must state material facts, be based on objective evidence, and apply least restrictive measures. All restrictive orders must be published and made accessible for judicial review. The Court disposed the petitions, directing authorities to comply with proportionality principles and rule of law in future restrictions.
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