India, Dec. 29 -- The district administrations of Kupwara and Shopian on Monday ordered the suspension of Virtual Private Network (VPN) services, citing security and cyber-related concerns, with authorities warning of strict action against violations.

In Kupwara, District Magistrate Shrikant Balasaheb Suse imposed a blanket ban on all VPN services across the district for a period of two months, invoking powers under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. The order, issued with immediate effect, applies to all individuals, institutions, cyber cafes and Internet Service Providers operating within the district.

According to the official order, the decision followed inputs from the Senior Superintendent of Police, Kupwa...