Police Crack Down on SIM Misuse Across Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Friday carried out extensive inspections of SIM card vendors across various places including Shopian, Pulwama, Anantnag, Sopore, Awantipora, and Handwara.

According to a police statement, the drives were launched simultaneously across multiple districts to ensure strict compliance with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) guidelines and to prevent the illegal issuance of SIM cards without proper verification, a practice posing serious risks to public safety and national security.

In Shopian, police conducted a district-wide crackdown under the supervision of SSP Mushtaq Ahmad Choudhary, focusing on identifying and penalising vendors involved in unauthorised SIM distribution. Surprise inspections were carried out at several telecom outlets across the district.

In Pulwama, police undertook a comprehensive verification drive of SIM vendors, checking outlets and franchise points to ensure adherence to legal and procedural requirements. Similarly, in Anantnag, multiple police teams carried out simultaneous inspections to verify customer documentation, KYC procedures, and vendor licensing compliance. Vendors were warned that any violation of regulations would attract strict legal action.

In Sopore, coordinated police teams inspected SIM vendors across various locations to ensure compliance with DoT norms. In Awantipora, drives led by SDPOs, SHOs, and police post in-charges included detailed inspections and raids on SIM sale outlets to ensure legitimate documentation and prevent misuse for unlawful activities.

In Handwara, police carried out checks at SIM outlets in Handwara, Qalamabad, Kralgund, and Vilgam under the supervision of senior officers. The inspections focused on ensuring full adherence to telecom and law enforcement directives.

Police said the coordinated operation reflects the force’s ongoing commitment to strengthening internal security and preventing the misuse of digital infrastructure. Authorities reaffirmed that strict action will continue against any individuals or vendors found violating guidelines or engaging in practices that endanger public safety and national stability.