Pakistan’s Social Media Ban: All You Need to Know During Muharram

Pakistan is set to ban all social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, and YouTube, for six days from July 13 to 18 during the Islamic month of Muharram. The decision comes after the government successfully blocked X (formerly Twitter) for over four months. The ban is being implemented to control the spread of hate material and misinformation during this sensitive period.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s cabinet committee on law and order has recommended the ban on social media platforms to ‘control hate material, misinformation, and avoid sectarian violence’ in Punjab, a province with a population of over 120 million people. The Punjab government has requested the central government to notify the suspension of all social media platforms on the internet for six days.

Pakistan Army Chief Gen Asim Munir has labeled social media as a ‘vicious media’ and emphasized the need to combat what he termed ‘digital terrorism’. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has also called for a complete ban on social media in the country.

In the past, the Shehbaz Sharif government shut down X following allegations of tampering in general election results by the Election Commission of Pakistan. The decision was reportedly made to prevent Imran Khan, the jailed founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, from returning to power.

With Muharram approaching, Pakistan has ramped up security measures and deployed military and Ranger personnel in sensitive areas, particularly in Punjab. Around 502 locations have been identified as sensitive areas where security personnel have been stationed to ensure the safety of religious processions and gatherings. Approximately 40,000 security personnel, including Frontier Corps and Pakistan Army troops, will be deployed to maintain law and order.

Muharram holds deep religious significance for Shia Muslims as it commemorates the death of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. However, Pakistan has grappled with tensions between Sunni and Shia communities, leading to targeted attacks during processions and gatherings.