PTA issues new statement on internet restoration

Ban on social media platforms ... creates permissive environment for other rights' violations under internet shutdown, says Amnesty International.

In the aftermath of nationwide protests and the arrest of former premier Imran Khan, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) confirmed today that it has yet to receive any directives from the Ministry of Interior regarding the restoration of internet services. The blockades, which have been in effect for four days, were imposed after the arrest of Khan by Rangers on the orders of the National Accountability Bureau, resulting in violent clashes and multiple casualties.

Enraged supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party resorted to violence, targeting military and government buildings in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar. To control the situation and curb the spread of misinformation, the Ministry of Interior instructed the PTA to suspend mobile internet services. Additionally, popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube have been inaccessible since then.

The PTA, in its statement, declared that the suspension of mobile internet services will continue until further notice.

However, broadband internet service remains available for users. Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah expressed hope on Thursday that mobile internet services would be restored within the next 36 hours.Amidst the ongoing situation, Amnesty International has called on Pakistani authorities to lift the restrictions on internet services imposed following Imran Khan's arrest in the Al Qadir Trust corruption case. Rimmel Mohydin, a South Asian campaigner at Amnesty International, stressed the need for de-escalation to prevent further human rights violations and loss of life.

Mohydin urged the authorities to exercise restraint and avoid excessive use of force, emphasizing that any force used should be necessary and proportionate. Amnesty International further emphasized the importance of ensuring that arrests are not arbitrary and are based on reasonable suspicion of criminal activity.Expressing concern over the indefinite nature of the mobile internet shutdown, Mohydin highlighted that such a ban violates people's rights to access information and free expression. Moreover, the restrictions on social media platforms create an environment that enables further human rights abuses. Amnesty International called for an immediate lift of the restrictions.As the situation continues to unfold, the Pakistani authorities face mounting pressure to address the protests, restore internet services, and ensure the protection of human rights.

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