Pakistan Implements Ban on X (Formerly Twitter) Over Misuse Concerns
Background:
Pakistan’s Interior Ministry recently informed the Islamabad High Court (IHC) about the ban on the social networking site X, previously known as Twitter. The ban was imposed due to concerns regarding the platform’s misuse, which X allegedly failed to address. Interior Secretary Khurram Agha submitted a report to the court in response to a petition challenging the ban.
Reasons for Ban:
- The ban on X was implemented due to the platform’s alleged failure to comply with lawful directives from the government of Pakistan and address concerns related to its misuse.
- The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cybercrime Wing had requested X to ban accounts allegedly spreading propaganda against the chief justice. However, X officials reportedly ignored these requests, leading to the decision to temporarily close the platform.
Legal Response:
- The Interior Ministry urged the court to dismiss the petition, asserting that no rights of the petitioner had been violated.
- The report argued that the petition against the closure of X lacked legal basis and factual accuracy.
National Security Concerns:
- The Ministry of Interior issued orders for the closure of X on February 17, 2024, in response to requests from intelligence agencies, aiming to safeguard national security and maintain law and order.
- The decision was made in the interest of upholding national security, maintaining public order, and preserving the integrity of the nation.
Use of Social Media for Extremism:
- The report highlighted the indiscriminate use of social media platforms to spread extremist ideologies and false information.
- X was allegedly exploited by certain elements to disrupt law and order and promote instability.
Conclusion:
The ban on X in Pakistan underscores the government’s commitment to addressing misuse of social media platforms and ensuring national security. While the ban has sparked debate over freedom of speech and online expression, the government maintains that the decision was necessary to maintain public order and combat the spread of misinformation and extremism.
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