Muharram security in Punjab: Govt to decide social media suspension today

The federal government of Pakistan is currently considering a request from the Punjab government to suspend access to several social media platforms for around a week during Muharram ul Haram due to security concerns. This decision is pending approval and will be discussed by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Muharram is a significant period in the Islamic calendar, marked by processions and large gatherings of religious scholars. The Punjab government has raised concerns about the potential spread of hate material and misinformation during this time, which could incite sectarian violence. As a preventive measure, the Punjab Home Department has proposed the suspension of social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, from Muharram 6 to 11.

The request was made following a meeting of the Standing Committee of the Cabinet on Law and Order, which reviewed security and administrative arrangements for Muharram. Although the Interior Minister reportedly does not favor suspending social media services, the final decision will be made after the upcoming meeting. The primary goal of this proposal is to ensure peace and security during the sensitive period of Muharram.