The Bhutanomics.com has accused the country’s ISP, Druknet, of blocking the site from browsing inside the country.
According to the website, internet users of the Druknet have no access to the website contents from Bhutan. However, those using internet of privately operated ISPs – Tashi and Samden – are able to browse the site.
“Inability to view our website only through Druknet confirms the fact that we are banned. The government has no control over Tashi and Samden,” the Bhutanomics pointed out, referring to two of three private ISPs in the country.
However, both the Druknet General Manager Tshering Norbu and Media Officer of Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority, Lakshuman Chhetri, have denied of blocking the site.
Currently, the website cannot be accessed by Druknet users in Thimphu and other districts. But, it is accessible through proxy websites, social media and by users using private ISP connections. The website is also accessible abroad.
The site came into existence from last year and is “anonymously funded and run independently by a group of freelance writers”.
Previous, there were even claims that a group loyal to K5, Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk, was operating the website.
According to the government’s mouthpiece, Kuensel, Druknet attempted to block pornography websites but high costs and bypass methods caused the ISP to abandon the effort.
In 2007, BICMA attempted blocking the BhutanTimes website, but abandoned the effort shortly thereafter.
