The federal government remains undecided on proposals to suspend internet services during the first week of Muharram over security concerns, the Interior Ministry announced on Friday.
Provincial governments had earlier sought the suspension of six social media applications—X, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook, TikTok—from Muharaam 6-11 to curtail the dissemination of hate material and misinformation with an aim to prevent sectarian violence. The proposal had drawn criticism on social media, with users slamming the potential bar on freedom of speech.
Addressing the proposal, the Interior Ministry said it had yet to make any final decision and urged the media and public to avoid rumors to the contrary. Stressing that the Prime Minister’s Office had yet to issue any instructions on the issue, it said no application of proposal of any provincial government had been either accepted or rejected. It said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would deliberate on the proposals after his return to Pakistan, adding he would then make the final decision.
While the proposal to suspend access to social media services for nearly a week appears excessive—and risks hurting the country’s I.T. sector—it is likely that, as per past practice, mobile phone services might be suspended for several hours during processions on 9th and 10th Muharram.
Annually, throughout the month of Muharram, devotees stage processions nationwide, with religious scholars addressing huge gatherings amid tight security. To ensure security, and avoid any sectarian conflict, the government deploys thousands of law enforcement personnel. The issue is of particular concern this year amidst resurgent terrorism, with fears militants could try to take advantage of the situation for nefarious purposes.