Ban on X To Uplift Soon In Pakistan
In Pakistan, the ongoing saga of restricted access to social media giant X persists, casting a shadow over the digital landscape. Recently, the Sindh High Court (SHC) stepped into the fray, issuing a directive to the Ministry of Interior, urging them to rescind their letter mandating the suspension of X within a week.
This development unfolded during a hearing where SHC Chief Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi voiced his concerns, questioning the rationale behind shutting down what he referred to as “trivial things.” Expressing a sentiment of embarrassment on a global scale, Justice Abbasi highlighted the potential ridicule Pakistan may face due to such actions.
The suspension of X, a platform utilized by millions across Pakistan, has been in effect since February, purportedly due to national security concerns cited by the government. The Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) revealed that it implemented the ban following directives from the Ministry of Interior and intelligence agencies. However, during the proceedings, Justice Abbasi pointed out a critical oversight, emphasizing that the law does not empower the interior ministry to act solely based on reports from intelligence agencies.
In a separate case before the Islamabad High Court (IHC), the interior ministry asserted that online content poses a threat to national security, further justifying their stance on the suspension. However, the petitioner’s lawyer contested this assertion, arguing that the usage of X and similar platforms does not correlate with security threats like explosions.
Reflecting on the situation, Justice Abbasi lamented the lack of substantive justification for the suspension of X, hinting at the possibility of forthcoming judicial intervention if the interior ministry fails to withdraw its directives. As the courtroom drama unfolded, the SHC adjourned the hearing until May 9, stipulating that the Ministry of Interior must provide detailed reasons for the social media platform’s blockade. This ongoing legal battle underscores the complex interplay between national security concerns, freedom of expression, and the ever-evolving digital landscape in Pakistan.
