X services still face disruption blockade in Pakistan

Current Feb 19, 2024 0 96 Add to Reading List

Social media platform X services in Pakistan faced sporadic suspension after a 36-hour blockade since February 17 began. The blockade came after former Rawalpindi commissioner Liaqat Ali Chatha resigned, triggering a fresh wave of controversy over the February 8 poll results. NetBlocks, a global internet monitor, reported the nationwide disruption amid escalating unrest and protests over allegations of election fraud. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is not responding to queries. Digital rights activist Usama Khilji criticized authorities for imposing internet restrictions, stating that the country suffers a loss of $53 million if the internet is shut down for one day. The Pakistan Institute for Development Economics estimated a loss of Rs1.3 billion due to the internet blockade. Khilji dispelled the impression that social media only boosts disinformation and stated that there are platforms available for self-correction and co-regulation mechanisms to counter this.

X services still face disruption blockade in Pakistan