The ministry of (dis)information and the ban on X

Since February 17, 2024, the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, has faced accessibility issues in Pakistan, requiring a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for access except for sporadic instances. The government initially denied a formal ban until a month into the disruption when Information Minister Atta Tarrar acknowledged the ban's existence but claimed there was no official notification.

On March 20, 2024, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) presented a notification from a Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) section officer, supporting the ban on X amid ongoing legal challenges in the Sindh High Court (SHC). Subsequently, on April 17, 2024, the Ministry of Interior (MoI) submitted a response to the Islamabad High Court (IHC), citing national security and X's non-compliance with online content rules as reasons for the ban.

The MoI's response emphasized national security, public order, and the nation's integrity as reasons for the ban. However, questions arise regarding government officials' use of X via VPNs despite the ban, potentially undermining the claimed justifications.

The timing of the ban coincided with statements regarding election manipulation and irregularities, particularly concerning the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) and the National Democratic Movement. These factors raise doubts about the ban's true motives and effectiveness in safeguarding national interests.

Overall, the ban on X in Pakistan has sparked debates regarding its actual impact on national security, public order, and the transparency of government actions.