Islamabad High Court criticizes federal government over social media ban

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has strongly rebuked the federal government for its decision to ban the social media platform X, citing lack of concrete evidence and mere speculation as the basis for the ban. The Secretary Interior, Khurram Agha, appeared before the IHC to defend the ban but failed to provide satisfactory justification, leading to the court's criticism.

The Interior Ministry's report claimed that the ban on X was necessary due to the platform's failure to comply with government directives and address concerns of misuse. However, the IHC expressed dissatisfaction with the report, with the judge remarking that even their secretary could have produced a better one.

The court demanded solid evidence from the authorities to prove that X poses a security threat to Pakistan, emphasizing the need for a valid justification for the ban. Civil society organizations, including Amnesty International and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, have condemned the ban as a violation of democratic freedoms in the country.

The ban on X was initiated by Pakistan's FIA Cybercrime Wing following the platform's alleged refusal to cooperate in removing accounts spreading content against the Chief Justice. The Interior Ministry defended the ban as a measure to protect national security and maintain public order, citing intelligence agency recommendations.

In response to the ongoing controversy, the IHC has called for a more substantial explanation from the government regarding the ban on X, highlighting the importance of upholding democratic principles and ensuring transparency in such decisions.