Cellular services have been cut in Pakistan over security threats in the past. PHOTO: EXPRESS/FILE
Eidul Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramazan for Muslims worldwide.
Nisar advised police officials to stay alert and vigilant to any possibility of terror threat, adding that other steps would be taken to ensure security since cellular services weren't being suspended.
As per the orders of the Interior Minister, no city will face the suspension of cellular services during Eid.
However, he said that the provincial governments could suspend cellular services if they felt the security situation demanded it.
Last year, cellular services were suspended on the festive day on the orders of the former interior minister Rehman Malik.
Malik had made the case that terrorists used mobile phones to detonate explosive devices and carry out other terror activities.
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I don't know whether to be happy about this. Even though it is ridiculous shutting down cellphone networks on sensitive days, I can't help but wonder if it is worth not being able to communicate others if we can save lives. I know shutting down networks is not a long term solution but it was very effective in curbing terrorism on days that networks were closed. I just hope no undue incident occurs on Eid, as it would be devastating for affected persons and their family. Eid is a horrible time to lose a loved one as it will ruin the holiday for his or her family for as long as they live. If the govt can provide security to everyone, this is a great decision. Time will tell.
dont they use cellphone to trigger blasts...happy ramadan..!!!
Awww.. this must have killed you guys inside...
Thanks God, we have a sensible Interior Minister in the shape of Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan. The ghost of Rahman Malik is not going to haunts anymore! Some people are of the view that Rahman Malik had his business interest in gray trafficking in telecom and was, therefore, making his personal fortunes grow by banning the mobile service in the country. We hope someday this conspiracy will be uncovered by the PMLN government and punished by the Supreme Court. Congratulations to 180 million Pakistanis!
If law enforcing agencies can make sure that no untoward incident is going to happen during Eid prayers, there is no need to put a ban on cellular phone service on the Eid day.
Probably the first sensible step taken by this government. At least now the security apparatus is doing it's job instead of asking telcos to do it.