The proposal aimed to block social media apps from Muharram 6 to 11 in Punjab, citing concerns over hate speech, misinformation, and sectarian violence. Authorities suspect external forces, possibly cross-border elements, of spreading divisive content. The Standing Committee of Cabinet on Law and Order (SCCLO) and the Punjab Home Department acknowledged that internet shutdowns inconvenience the public. They noted that harmful content often circulates on social media apps, which can still be accessed even without mobile internet.
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To mitigate these risks, the SCCLO suggested temporarily banning platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, and TikTok. Initially, there was a proposal for a two-day ban, but due to increased reports of hate material circulation and alleged external funding for unrest, the duration was extended to nearly a week.
A letter has been sent to the federal interior ministry urging restrictions on these platforms. Notably, X (formerly Twitter) has already been blocked in Pakistan for several months. The interior ministry is expected to decide on this matter soon.
