Punjab to Suspend Social Media Apps for 6 Days
Millions in Punjab might lose access to social media as the provincial government has asked the Interior Ministry to block social media apps from Muharram 6 to 11.
The decision aims to control hate speech and misinformation and prevent sectarian violence. Authorities believe that external forces are spreading hateful content.
The Standing Committee of Cabinet on Law and Order (SCCLO) and the Punjab Home Department acknowledge that internet shutdowns cause inconvenience. They note that harmful content is often shared through social media, which can still be accessed without mobile internet.
The proposed temporary ban includes Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, and TikTok.
Following a meeting, the SCCLO has requested the federal interior ministry to restrict these platforms. Although there was an initial suggestion to block social media for just two days, the decision was extended to nearly a week due to concerns about increased hate material and alleged external funding to create unrest.
The Interior Ministry is expected to decide soon. Note that X (formerly known as Twitter) has already been blocked in Pakistan for several months.
