Federal Government Rejects Provincial Request to Block Social Media

During the holy month of Muharram ul Haram, the federal government has decided not to comply with requests from several provincial governments to block access to social media platforms. The provinces had sought a temporary suspension of six popular social media applications for about a week during Muharram due to security concerns.

Muharram is a significant month in the Islamic calendar, marked by processions and gatherings across the country. These events are attended by large crowds, with religious scholars addressing the audience under tight security measures enforced by thousands of law enforcement personnel.

The Ministry of Interior has assured that social media websites will remain operational during Muharram, with enhanced security protocols in place. The ministry emphasized the importance of heightened security measures and announced plans to block mobile signals in areas where processions and majlis are held.

The Punjab government cited the proliferation of hate material and misinformation as the primary reasons for their request to suspend social media platforms. A letter from the Punjab Home Department revealed that a meeting of the Standing Committee of the Cabinet on Law and Order was convened to evaluate security and administrative preparations for Muharram.

During the meeting, it was decided to temporarily suspend various social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram from Muharram 6 to 11. The objective behind this decision was to curb the spread of hate material and misinformation, aiming to prevent any potential sectarian violence during the holy month.

While some provincial governments advocated for the temporary suspension of social media platforms during Muharram ul Haram to address security concerns, the federal government has opted to maintain the accessibility of these platforms while implementing stringent security measures. The decision underscores the government's commitment to ensuring public safety and security during religious gatherings, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and preparedness in safeguarding communal harmony.