PTA engages religious scholars for promoting ‘ethical internet usage’

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) on Tuesday held a crucial meeting with prominent religious scholars for fostering a harmonious digital environment that aligns with cultural and religious values.

The meeting aimed to address the challenges posed by social media and the internet and promote responsible and ethical online behaviour.

The gathering brought together scholars from various schools of thought, including Islamic Ideological Council Chairman Dr Qibla Ayaz,  of Moon-sighting Committee Chairman Maulana Abdul Kabeer Azad and Maulana Tariq Jameel, among others.

PTA Chairman Maj-Gen (retd) Hafizur Rehman shed light on the pivotal role religious scholars can play in guiding the public towards the ethical and responsible use of the internet. He emphasized the importance of fostering cooperation between scholars and the PTA for a more positive online environment.

The scholars recognised the potential impact they could have by collaborating with the PTA through their respective platforms.

They said that such collaboration could lead to more constructive outcomes in the realm of online ethics. The PTA encouraged scholars to use their influence and knowledge to promote responsible internet usage.

The discussions also highlighted the need to raise awareness, especially among the youth, about the responsible use of social media and the Internet. Parents, in particular, were urged to play a pivotal role in educating their children about the ethical use of digital platforms.

The gathering urged the importance of identifying and countering hate speech, blasphemy, and divisive online content.

The scholars commended the PTA’s efforts to promote ethical Internet usage.

They emphasised the collective responsibility to create a positive and respectful online environment that aligns with cultural and religious values.