Govt Admits Internet Disruptions Due to Security Concerns, Promises Resolution by 2025
The government tacitly acknowledged on Monday that ongoing internet disruptions and social media monitoring are linked to prevailing security concerns. Speaking on the floor of the National Assembly, Parliamentary Secretary for Cabinet Secretariat Sajid Mehdi attributed the situation to necessary measures taken to address “great security threats.”
Responding to opposition criticism over slow internet speeds and alleged restrictions on social media, Mehdi said, “We cannot leave social media unbridled like other countries.” He confirmed efforts to regulate the use of VPNs (Virtual Private Networks), with 37,000 users already regularized.
Also Read: P@SHA Warns VPN Ban Could Endanger IT Industry’s Survival
Mehdi also blamed sluggish internet connectivity on “congestion, theft, and loadshedding,” adding that Pakistan’s limited infrastructure—only 15% fibre optic coverage compared to India’s 40%—further exacerbates the issue. He assured the assembly that the situation would improve after the 5G spectrum auction, scheduled for April 2025.
The discussion arose from a calling attention notice moved by JUI-F MNA Aliya Kamran, who accused the government of deliberately stifling internet access out of fear of its power. Kamran criticized the registration of VPNs and the introduction of a “digital firewall,” arguing it was stifling Pakistan’s IT industry.
Leader of the Opposition Omar Ayub Khan alleged that sluggish connectivity and social media restrictions were politically motivated to suppress PTI and its leader Imran Khan’s popularity. Ayub claimed intelligence agencies were interfering in PTA operations, causing slow speeds rather than technical faults like undersea cable issues. “It seems the government is attempting to impose a model similar to North Korea or the defunct Soviet Union,” he remarked.
The opposition leader warned that these policies were forcing IT businesses to relocate, leading to job losses.
Tributes to APS Martyrs and Call for Unity
During the session, lawmakers also paid homage to the victims of the Army Public School (APS) massacre, marking its ninth anniversary on December 16. The house passed a unanimous resolution honoring the sacrifices of APS martyrs, teachers, and staff, while calling for unity against terrorism.
The resolution, moved by PPP leader Shazia Marri, urged all political and social stakeholders to work together for a peaceful and prosperous Pakistan. The assembly also reflected on the 1971 East Pakistan tragedy, which shares the same date in history.
