The federal government has rejected requests from several provincial governments to suspend social media platforms during the holy month of Muharram, according to sources who spoke to Geo News on Friday.
These provincial governments had requested a week-long suspension of six social media applications citing security concerns during Muharram, a time when religious processions and gatherings take place across the country.
The Ministry of Interior, however, assured that security measures will be robust despite social media remaining accessible. “Security should be made more active and effective,” the ministry stated, adding that mobile signals will be blocked in specific areas hosting processions and religious gatherings (majalis).
This decision comes after the Punjab government requested a social media shutdown from July 6th to 11th, citing the potential spread of hate speech and misinformation that could lead to sectarian violence. Their request reportedly stemmed from a meeting of the Standing Committee of the Cabinet on Law and Order, aimed at reviewing security arrangements for Muharram.
The final decision on social media access during Muharram now rests with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
