In times of end to end encryption, the Jammu and Kashmir government wants a license of sorts for running a WhatsApp group.

The government has kick-started an official crackdown on social media platforms like WhatsApp. The state is likely to get the distinction of being the first place where you would need a registration certificate to have a WhatsApp group.

"The Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir Dr. Asgar Hassan Samoon, Monday directed the operators of social media news agencies to obtain proper permission from the concerned Deputy Commissioners for posting news on social media news groups along with sources", read an official press release.

The statement also had a stern warning for those who don't comply. It promised action against the violators.

The move comes after a series of other curbs like complete blackout of internet whenever there is slight anticipation of trouble. The recent instance being the clashes and tension after the Handwara firing incident. For almost 3 days internet services remained shutdown across the valley.

This news of registration for WhatsApp groups and close monitoring of social media activity has taken netizens by surprise. Many asking how could there be such restrictions on web in an age when the world is moving towards increased privacy and encryption.