KARACHI: The Ministry of Interior (MOI) argued in the Sindh High Court (SHC) on Monday that the ban on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) was the only remedy against violating Pakistani laws.
Access to the social media giant has been blocked since February 17 following allegations of rigging during the February 8 general election.
The ban was imposed after Rawalpindi election official Liaqat Ali Chattha publicly claimed on social media that he had allegedly altered election results in his area.
Today, in the answer submitted to the court, the MoI claimed that the X ban does not contradict Article 19 of the Constitution. She highlighted that the platform was being used to upload hate speech against national institutions, which raised concerns about national security and dignity, and messages from sensitive agencies.
“All legal requirements were met before ban X was imposed. Article 19 allows for freedom of expression, but it also carries certain legal restrictions.”
According to the Constitution of Pakistan, Article 19 talks about freedom of speech, freedom of expression and freedom of the press.
“The petition is not admissible,” the ministry said, stressing its responsibility to protect the rights of Pakistani citizens.
The ministry emphasized that foreign company X had repeatedly violated local laws.
It’s worth noting that on April 18, social media platform X said it would work with the Pakistani government “to understand its concerns” after authorities insisted the ongoing two-month ban was based on security concerns.
“The Home Office had no choice but to immediately suspend X on 17 February for non-compliance,” the response said.
“X has not signed any memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Pakistan to comply with local regulations,” the Home Ministry said in a report.
The response said similar bans were imposed on other social media platforms such as TikTok, which were later allowed to operate after signing a memorandum of understanding and ensuring compliance with Pakistani laws.
“Not only Pakistan but also other countries sometimes impose restrictions on social media for national interests.”
The ministry urged the court to reject the proposal in the interests of national security and the preservation of public order.
