Tech-phobic

The recent statement by Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari about social media regulation raises questions about the efficacy of government. She has suggested that social media apps should be blocked if not properly regulated. In a digital world where the right to information has become a topic of intense discussion, the idea of blocking social media apps seems particularly irksome. Countries are increasingly creating opportunities for their people to exercise their right to information in this globalized and digitized world. Pakistan's neighbouring countries have effectively leveraged technology. The recent protests in Bangladesh are a manifestation of how the youth, empowered by digital platforms, can mobilize people. They used social media to rally opposition against an authoritarian government. Similarly, India has massively invested in information technology, with software exports exceeding 100 billion dollars. In contrast, Pakistan's situation is dismal and worrisome. The incumbent government must urgently recalibrate its policies. The globe is moving towards digitization and so should we.

Nasrullah Khadim

Kandhkot