Pakistan blocks all social media platforms

By Muhammad JuniadPublished On 05 Jan 2023

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has blocked social media platforms in the country for a few hours.

A temporary ban has been imposed on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, WhatsApp, Instagram, and YouTube, the Ministry of Interior said in a statement, adding that they will remain blocked until 3 pm.

The decision has been taken to maintain the law and order situation in the country following violent protests by a religious party.

On Thursday, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) banned coverage by all television and radio licensees of the proscribed Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).

It is noteworthy that the federal government has imposed a ban on the TLP under the anti-terrorism act. A notification was issued by the Ministry of Interior after the federal cabinet approved the summary seeking a ban on the religiopolitical party.