ISLAMABAD – The Ministry of Religious Affairs has instructed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to remove harmful and objectionable content from social media platforms.
In a letter addressed to the PTA, the ministry pointed out that such content remains easily accessible online and urged prompt action for its removal.
“Despite the proactive steps taken by PTA to block this content in accordance with Supreme Court directives (January 2016 and March 2018), it has been observed that pornographic and blasphemous material is still easily accessible across several online platforms.
“It is crucial to note that although PTA has made substantial efforts to restrict access to such content, it continues to be available online, violating our cultural and religious values.”
The widespread availability of such content hampers efforts to shield citizens, especially young people, from exposure to harmful material. It also raises significant concerns about compliance with Supreme Court directives and the authority’s capacity to effectively enforce content regulations.
“Considering the sensitivity of the issue, PTA is once again urged to implement all necessary technical measures to block and restrict access to pornographic, blasphemous, and other harmful online content as soon as possible. Immediate and prompt action is requested,” the letter states.
