The federal government has contended that micro-blogging site X—formerly Twitter—is being used by anti-state elements to malign state institutions and that its February 17 decision to impose a temporary ban on the site does not violate Article 19 of the Constitution.
In its reply submitted to the provincial high court of Sindh (SHC) which is hearing some petitions requesting immediate restoration of the site, the government said while Article 19 enshrines the right to freedom of speech and expression, “it is subject to reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of public order, morality and sovereignty and integrity of Pakistan”.
“The decision to impose a ban on Twitter/X is a legitimate exercise of the government authority to regulate the use of social media platforms in accordance with these constitutional principles.
“It is aimed at addressing genuine concerns related to national security and public safety and it is undertaken with due consideration for the overarching goal of promoting responsible and lawful communication in our society,” it said.
The government said there are different kinds of activities on social media which are very sensitive and hostile in nature as they are aimed at spreading false propaganda and hate material against state institutions.
“Sometimes the element of impersonation is also involved [particularly on X]. It is among one of the biggest challenges for the law enforcing agencies particularly the FIA (Federal Investigation Agency) Cybercrime Wing in order to identify the real culprits. In this regard, it is very important to regulate these social media platforms and safeguard national security,” it said.
According to the reply, X being a foreign entity operating in Pakistan is subject to the regulatory framework of the country, including compliance with legal directive of the Government of Pakistan.
“Despite repeated requests and engagements with X authorities, the company has exhibited reluctance to cooperate with Pakistani authorities in resolving these critical issues.
“Hence, the government of Pakistan has no alternative but to temporarily block access/suspend the operation of this platform within Pakistan.”
It said the Ministry of Interior vide its letter dated February 17, 2024 asked the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) for blocking of X immediately till further order.
“Accordingly, the access to the social media platform has been blocked by the PTA based on [a number] facts and legal merits,” it said, adding that the interior ministry’s February 17 letter was still in force.
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