Government orders strict monitoring of social media to curb hate speech during Muharram

Move aims to avoid growing sectarian divides within country that leads to escalating violence

ISLAMABAD:

The federal government has issued directives to the Chief Secretaries and Inspectors General of Police of all four provinces, as well as Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, to implement stringent monitoring of social media platforms in the holy month of Muharram.

A letter from the Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Interior highlights a concerning surge in hate speech and religious incitement on social media, noting that such activities indicate growing sectarian divides within the country and pose a significant risk of escalating violence.

The communication warns that the nation is currently facing a new wave of militancy fueled by the spread of hateful and blasphemous content on social media. Given the present situation, the country cannot afford any sectarian unrest.

The letter emphasises the need for the monitoring of all sectarian organisations, associated elements, and incendiary speakers linked to militancy on social media.

The district administration of Islamabad had earlier imposed a ban on 27 religious scholars from various sects, prohibiting them from delivering sermons and speeches during the holy month.

The administration's decision aims to maintain peace and security during Muharram, a period that often sees heightened religious activities and gatherings.

Moreover, the interior ministry issued an order approving the deployment of the military on the request of all provincial governments, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, in maintaining law and order in the country during the holy month of Muharram.