Senator Bahramand Khan Tangi has withdrawn his resolution aimed at imposing a blanket ban on several major social media platforms in the country.
The resolution, which sparked controversy before its introduction in the house, called for the government to prohibit access to Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube, citing concerns over their perceived negative impact on the younger generation.
Even before reaching the floor of the house, Tangi’s resolution faced significant criticism from digital rights activists and journalists.
Critics argued that the proposed ban would further restrict freedom of expression in Pakistan. The timing of the resolution’s emergence added to its contentious nature, coinciding with ongoing disruptions to access X following allegations of electoral rigging during the February 8 polls.
Senator Brahmand Tangi, who was expelled by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) one month ago, had moved a resolution in the senate asking that all social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram be banned in Pakistan to protect the next generation from what he has dubbed their “negative and devastating” effects.
Tangi was expelled by the PPP last month after he went against party policy and remained silent on a resolution asking for delay in Balochistan and KP general elections. However, DAWN has reported that the party has till now not moved a reference against him.
The resolution has alleged that social media platforms were being used to promote norms “against our culture and religion” and creating hatred among the general populace.
The document also charges the platforms with being used to run “malicious” campaigns against the army and spreading fake news.
PPP has said that the senator should not use the party’s name anymore, swiftly distancing itself from the controversial resolution. Nonetheless, it will be on Monday’s agenda.
Senator Tangi is set to retire on March 11.
