This Indian state requires users to get a government permit to create WhatsApp groups

While WhatsApp introduced end-to-end encryption for all users two weeks ago, users in the conflict-ridden Kupwara district in north Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir will require a license to start WhatsApp news group.

A new circular issued by the district magistrate of Kupwara asks for the mandatory registration of all "WhatsApp news groups." The registered groups will be monitored by the authorities for "provoking the youth" and creating law and order problems."

Kupwara has been under curfew after week-long violent protests over allegations of a girl being molested by an Indian army soldier in the neighbouring Handwara town. Five civilians have been killed in the clashes with security forces. Read more...