Pakistan blocked social media platform X over ‘misuse’ concerns
- In Reports
- 05:39 PM, Apr 17, 2024
- Myind Staff
Pakistan confirmed the long-suspected shutdown of social media platform X, stating that it ordered the temporary blockage in February due to national security concerns.
Since mid-February, social media users in Pakistan have encountered difficulties accessing the Elon Musk-owned platform, following nationwide protests called for by the jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party. These protests were in response to alleged rigging in the general elections.
Pakistan's interior ministry confirmed the shutdown of the social media platform in a written court submission. The ministry stated that the platform's failure to comply with lawful directives and address concerns regarding misuse necessitated the ban, as reported by Reuters.
The ministry accused the social media company of showing reluctance to cooperate with Pakistani authorities in resolving "critical" issues.
The report stated that the decision to ban Twitter/X in Pakistan was made to safeguard national security, maintain public order, and protect the nation's integrity. The Sindh High Court criticised the suspension of X, ordering the government to restore the platform within one week.
During a hearing on the suspension of the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, SHC Chief Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi rebuked the Interior Ministry, questioning the effectiveness of shutting down trivial matters. Geo News reported his statement, "The world must laugh at us."
The public admission of vote manipulation by a senior government official in the February 8 polls sparked outrage and prompted protests from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
Reports indicated significant disruptions in accessing X in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi, the major cities of Pakistan.
Mobile internet services were suspended nationwide on polling day, with the interior ministry citing security concerns.
The US State Department expressed support for the right to internet access but did not comment on whether it had addressed the issue with Pakistan.
State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller informed reporters that, generally, they advocate for internet platforms to be accessible to people in Pakistan and globally.
Image source: AFP
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