PTA chairman to take up X’s closure with interior ministry

ISLAMABAD: In the wake of the closure of the prominent social media platform X in Pakistan, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Maj-Gen Hafeezur Rehman has announced to take up the matter with the interior ministry.

The disruption, which has affected countless users since the general election on February 8, 2024, has sparked widespread confusion and calls for clarity.

Speaking to Dawn.com, Maj-Gen Rehman expressed his concerns: “The situation needs to be resolved, or accountability must be established. Typically, directives to shut down social media platforms come from the interior ministry.”

He further added that no clear instructions have been issued regarding the shutdown of platform X, leading to uncertainty among the public.

Closure of X in Pakistan

The closure of social media platform X followed the general election held on February 8, 2024, which have been mired in controversy.

Former Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaqat Ali Chatta held a press conference alleging that bureaucratic forces were compelled to manipulate the election results. This claim added to the political turmoil and raised questions on X and other social media networks about the integrity of the electoral process.

In response to the closure of X, various stakeholders, including political parties and civil rights groups, have criticized the government’s decision, emphasizing the importance of digital platforms for free speech and information dissemination.

The PTA’s silence on the issue has only fueled the debate, with many urging for a swift restoration of access to platform X.