Rumours of a social media ban during Muharram have been dismissed by Pakistani government officials. An Interior Ministry spokesman refuted any policies about temporary social media platform restrictions.
This rejection follows news stories alleging the federal government turned down province demands for a modest social media restriction during the holy month. The official underlined that thus far no such decision has been taken.
The Interior Ministry official underlined that social media bans cannot be decided upon by any one province during Muharram. They clarified that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) might be ordered to limit social media access just by the Interior Ministry. Following a meeting with pertinent authorities this Saturday (today), the spokesman made hints about a likely outcome.
Although some authorities suggest for banning social media during Muharram, a total shutdown could create more issues than it solves.
First of all, social media channels have evolved into vital means of communication for Pakistan. Companies utilise them to interact with consumers, families keep in touch, and reporters publish news. A ban would throw off these essential relationships.
Second, a ban would not always stop damaging material from propagating. Many times, people find means of access to forbidden channels. More crucially, given the recent, divisive limits on Twitter in Pakistan, it compromises free speech and might hinder significant conversations.
Ensuring online safety during Muharram might be better achieved by concentrating on content control and cooperation with social media businesses.
