Muharram security: Punjab govt seeks suspension of social media platforms

LAHORE: The Punjab government has requested for suspension of social media platforms from Muharram 6 to 11 to curb the spread of hate material and misinformation.

According to a Home Department letter available with The News, a meeting of the Standing Committee of the Cabinet on Law and Order was convened to review security and administrative arrangements for Muharram.

In this meeting, it was decided to suspend social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, YouTube, TikTok and Instagram from Muharram 6 to 11 to prevent dissemination of hate material and misinformation, aiming to avert sectarian violence. The Home Department sent the request to the Ministry of Interior, Government of Pakistan, seeking immediate action to ensure peace and security during the sensitive period of Muharram.