Lawsuit Filed Against Internet Blackout:
A group of people has filed a lawsuit in the Lahore High Court against government agencies for suspending internet services in Pakistan without notice or explanation. The petitioners argue that the government’s actions are unlawful and violate basic rights. Consequently, they demand that the government restore internet access immediately.
Internet Blackout Causes Widespread Disruption:
The sudden and unexplained shutdown has caused widespread disruption, resulting in slow connections, poor connectivity, and restrictions on online services. Meanwhile, the government claims it is testing a ‘cybersecurity wall‘ to filter out undesirable content. However, critics accuse the government of overreacting, harming the economy and citizens’ freedoms.
Lawsuit Seeks Accountability and Restoration:
The lawsuit seeks to hold the government and relevant authorities accountable for the shutdown, which has affected millions of people and businesses reliant on the internet. Furthermore, the petitioners demand legal action against the government for the shutdown. In response, the court has scheduled a hearing and ordered the government and PTA to file their replies.
Industry Experts Warn of Devastating Effects:
The sources of the industry reveal that internet slowdown has adverse effects to the companies especially those in the digital economy and severe economic repercussions might be occasioned by the same. The government activities have raise some concerns of censorship and surveillance and impacts the digital environment of Pakistan.
