Govt admits internet disruption due to “security” concerns

The government has conceded that it has been responsible for the continued throttling and shutdowns of the internet in Pakistan. Speaking on behalf of the government in the National Assembly, Parliamentary Secretary for Cabinet Secretariat Sajid Mehdi highlighted “great security threats” while responding to concerns raised on slow internet and underscored how the government “cannot leave it [social media] unbridled like other countries”. He also claimed that the issue of slow internet would be resolved after the auction of 5G spectrum by April 2025.Meanwhile, PTI Opposition leader Omar Ayub accused the government of blocking social media due to their party’s popularity. He also accused the intelligence agencies for interfering in affairs of the PTA while talking about slow internet speeds.