Jammu: Jammu Police have conducted an extensive inspection of SIM card vendors across districts to enforce strict adherence to regulatory guidelines and prevent its misuse in unlawful activities, police spokesperson said.
Special police teams were deployed to check vendors' adherence to the Know Your Customer (KYC) norms, documentation processes and regulations set by the department of telecommunications. The inspections are aimed to ensure that SIM cards are issued only after proper verification and to curb fraudulent practices.
Speaking about the initiative, a police spokesperson said, "This drive underscores our commitment to ensure securing communication channels and preventing any misuse of SIM cards for illegal activities. Strict action will be taken against vendors found violating the prescribed guidelines."
The inspections revealed critical lapses in several areas. In Poonch, police scrutinised vendors across subdivisions including Surankote, Mendhar and Gursa, ensuring proper record maintenance. Similarly, in Kishtwar, vendors were found lacking inventory registers and data on lost or fraudulent SIM cards. Comprehensive verification drives were conducted in 20 locations across Reasi while Udhampur district focused on areas namely Kud, Ramnagar and Basantgarh.
In Jammu city, police took stringent action against vendors selling SIM cards against fraudulent identity cards in areas under police stations of Nagrota, Bahu Fort and Gandhi Nagar. Other districts, including Rajouri, Samba and Kathua, also reported similar inspections. In Ramban and Doda, surprise checks were conducted and vendors were sensitised about maintaining accurate records.
During the drive, vendors were reminded of the mandatory guidelines, which include, biometric Aadhaar verification for both vendors and customers, physical presence of customers during SIM issuance, activation only after alternate number confirmation, prohibition of pre-activated SIMs, maintenance of CCTV footage at outlets and electronic billing systems.
The spokesperson added, "We have directed all vendors to ensure compliance with these instructions to safeguard public security and maintain transparency. Non-compliance will lead to strict legal consequences."
The police reiterated their commitment to intensify such drives and work closely with telecom authorities to strengthen security protocols in the region, the spokesperson further added.
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