Punjab govt wants to suspend social media from Muharram 6 to 11

Update

The federal government has rejected the Punjab government’s request to suspend social media platforms for six days during Muharram ul Haram, Geo News reported today.

The Interior Ministry believes that security would be foolproof during the holy month, so there would be no need to shut down social media platforms across the province.

“Security should be made more active and effective,” said the Interior Ministry, adding that mobile signals will be blocked in areas where processions and majlis will be held.

Previously

The Punjab government, in a matter of urgent security, has requested to suspend access to all social media platforms for a week during Muharram ul Haram, as reported by Geo News today.

The federal government will decide on the province’s request: “Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi will present the issue before Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif today.”

Shia Muslims hold processions across the globe, including in Pakistan, with thousands of policemen deployed to ensure security during the month.

Geo News also reported that Mohsin Naqvi is not in favour of suspending social media; the decision will be made after a meeting with the Prime Minister.

The Punjab Home Department sent a request to the Ministry of Interior to suspend all social media platforms from Muharram 6 to 11, aiming to avoid sectarian violence in the country.