PTA responsible for reporting blasphemous content, TikTok tells PHC

TikTok has shifted the responsibility of removing blasphemous content to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), stating that it takes down videos based on complaints from the regulator. In a letter to the Peshawar High Court (PHC), where a petition against the app is under review, TikTok mentioned it has not recently received any escalations regarding blasphemous content through the special portal provided to the PTA.

**Key Points from the Case:**

1. **Petition Against TikTok:**
   - The petition, filed by Advocate Imran Khan, seeks a permanent ban on TikTok in Pakistan, citing persistent breaches of guidelines and violations of the Constitution due to alleged blasphemous and immoral content.
   - The respondents in the petition include the PTA, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and the Ministry of Information.

2. **Court Proceedings:**
   - The PHC bench, comprising Justice SM Atiq Shah and Justice Shakeel Ahmed, is hearing the case.
   - In a previous hearing, the court directed the PTA to ensure the removal of any blasphemous and objectionable material on TikTok.

3. **TikTok's Response:**
   - TikTok emphasized its strict policy towards blasphemous content in Pakistan, stating that it takes such issues with utmost seriousness.
   - The app provides the PTA with a dedicated portal for expedited review and removal of reported content.
   - TikTok claimed it has not received any recent reports of blasphemous content through this portal and has reached out to the PTA for further reporting of relevant content.

4. **History of Bans:**
   - TikTok was first banned in Pakistan in October 2020 and has faced multiple bans since then, with authorities citing concerns over the promotion of immoral content.

TikTok's letter underscores its cooperation with Pakistani authorities and its commitment to complying with local laws. The ongoing court case will determine the future of TikTok's operations in Pakistan.