IHC moved against nationwide VPN closure

A citizen moved the Islamabad High Court (IHC) against the closure of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in the country on Tuesday, terming the government's move a violation of the fundamental rights of the citizens of Pakistan.

In his petition, Mubashir Qayyum stated that he was himself the direct victim of the VPN's closure.

The petition states: "A complete ban has been placed on X by the federal government which says the restriction has been imposed to stop misinformation and maintain public order [in the country]."

The petitioner argued that on November 15, the government directed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to shut down illegal VPNs but the ban on VPNs has disrupted the balance between security measures and the fundamental rights of citizens.

The petition requested that the Ministry of Interior (MoI)'s November 15 notification be declared null and void, as it violates fundamental rights.

The court has also been urged to order a halt to the implementation of the notification.

In the petition, the federal government, through the (MoI) has been named as a respondent along with the PTA.

'Govt to protect IT sector'

Meanwhile, PML-N Senator Afnan Ullah Khan assured that the government was taking steps to address the internet and VPN blockage concerns and will protect the freelancers and IT sector.

In an exclusive talk with a private news channel, Khan highlighted the significance of the freelance community, especially the 1 million freelancers engaged in professional online work and assured that the government recognises the importance of protecting their livelihoods.

He has also raised concerns about the potential impact of these unresolved internet issues on Pakistan's $3 billion IT export sector. He also acknowledged the letter from the Ministry of Interior about a potential internet blockade on November 30th but assured that deliberations are ongoing and the government will try not to take any steps that would impact freelancers or the IT industry.

A five-member committee has been formed to address the issue, comprising ministers and secretaries from various departments, he mentioned.