IT minister dismisses claims of censorship via firewall

Minister claims government would have blocked TikTok and Facebook instead of X if it wanted to impose censorship

SLAMABAD:

Minister of State for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja has dismissed claims that firewalls were being used to control social media content as mere speculation.

Condemning 'unnecessary controversies' being stirred up, Ms Khawaja said that all social media platforms remain open in Pakistan.

Speaking to journalists at Parliament House on Wednesday, she stressed that 'X', like other social media platforms, must comply with Pakistani laws.

However, she clarified that if the government intended to impose censorship, it would have blocked platforms like TikTok and Facebook instead of X.

The minister pointed out an ongoing issue with X's non-compliance with local regulations, contrasting it with TikTok's 95% compliance rate and Facebook's adherence to Pakistani laws.

However, despite being asked, she avoided giving a clear answer regarding the installation of a firewall.

The minister reiterated that the government was not in the business of censorship and that compliance with local laws was essential for all social media platforms operating in the country.

IT ministry to introduce

AI policy

Meanwhile, in a related development, the Ministry of Information Technology has decided to introduce an artificial intelligence policy, with a draft for the AI Policy 2024 already underway.

According to ministry officials, the draft will focus on five key areas including social preparedness, the establishment of a national AI fund, and the alignment of technology with AI.