X and Pakistan Are Working Together to Address Concerns

In its first statement since the suspension of its services in Pakistan in mid-February, the social media platform, now known as X after being acquired by American tech billionaire Elon Musk in April 2022, stated that it is working with the relevant authorities in the country to address their concerns.

The platform’s Global Government Affairs team, via their official X handle, stated: “We continue to work with the Pakistani Government to understand their concerns.”

The suspension of X in Pakistan occurred on February 17, shortly after the general elections in the country. Following the elections, there were widespread discussions on the platform regarding the fairness and transparency of the polls.

X and Pakistan Are Working Together to Address Concerns

Users began reporting difficulties in accessing the site, but the Pakistani government did not release any official statement regarding the suspension.

The interior ministry, in a report submitted to the Islamabad High Court in a related case, cited national security concerns as the reason for the suspension, stating that the “content uploaded on the internet” posed a threat to the country’s security.

The ministry added that it decided to suspend X in the interest of national security, public order, and the integrity of the nation. It stated that X has not registered in Pakistan and has not agreed to abide by Pakistani laws.

The ministry justified its actions by stating that X’s failure to comply with lawful directives and address concerns regarding the misuse of its platform left the government with no choice but to impose a ban.

The Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) cybercrime wing had requested X to ban accounts that were propagating against the chief justice, but the platform’s officials reportedly ignored the request.

The ministry also mentioned that some individuals are using social media platforms to spread extremist ideas and false information, and they are using X to disrupt law and order and promote instability.

The ban on X, according to the ministry, aims to ensure the responsible use of social media platforms following the law to protect the citizens of Pakistan and maintain national stability.

The report highlighted that other countries have also banned social media platforms for security reasons.

On February 17, 2024, the Interior Ministry issued orders for the closure of X following requests from intelligence agencies. However, the Sindh High Court (SHC) directed the Ministry of Interior to revoke its suspension letter within one week.

See Also: IHC Serves Notices to PTA, Information Ministry Over X (Twitter) Suspension