KARACHI: The Sindh High Court has again ordered the immediate restoration of internet services and access to social media platforms, postponing further hearings until March 5.
The court has also demanded a formal response from the federal government regarding this matter.
The petition, lodged by Advocate Jibran Nasir, challenged the country’s practice of blocking internet and social media platforms, particularly during electoral periods. Expressing dissatisfaction with the internet shutdown, the chief justice asked when normalcy would be restored, even questioning the rationale behind the shutdown within the courtroom.
During the proceedings, the petitioner’s counsel highlighted previous internet shutdowns on election days. In response, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) representative cited compliance with directives from the Interior and Information ministries, citing concerns over purported security issues as reported by intelligence agencies.
Internet Closure on Day
At this, the chief justice remarked that some candidates were prevented from participating in elections due to such restrictions. They wanted to run online campaigning, but the internet was shut down. “Don’t hold the elections then,” the CJ remarked.
In defense, the PTA lawyer reiterated adherence to received instructions while admitting to a lack of information regarding specific threats necessitating the shutdown.
The federal government’s legal representative attributed the shutdown to recommendations from provincial authorities.
Expressing dismay over the handling of the matter, the chief justice questioned the seriousness with which court orders are regarded and emphasized the imperative of adherence.
In light of the circumstances, the court reiterated its directive to restore internet services and social media platforms and adjourned the hearing until March 5, seeking a comprehensive response from the federal government.
