Pakistan's top body of clerics has declared the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) as being against Islamic laws, officials stated on Monday.
The Ministry of Interior is seeking a ban on the service, which is used to evade internet censorship in countries with strict controls.
Raghib Naeemi, the chair of the Council of Islamic Ideology, which advises the government on religious issues, said that Sharia allows the government to prevent actions that lead to the "spread of evil." He added that any platform used for posting content that is controversial, blasphemous, or against national integrity "should be stopped immediately."
How Restrictive Is Pakistan's Internet?
Millions of Pakistanis have been unable to access the X social media platform, formerly known as Twitter, since February 2023, when the government blocked it ahead of parliamentary elections. Many users have relied on VPNs to bypass the restrictions, because VPNs conceal online activity. Authorities claim the proposed VPN ban is aimed at curbing militancy, but critics argue that it represents a broader effort to suppress freedom of expression.
Are VPNs Generally Legal?
VPNs are legal in most countries; however, they are outlawed or restricted in places where authorities control internet access or carry out online surveillance and censorship. In Pakistan, VPNs have been utilized by supporters of the imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who have called for a march on Islamabad to pressure the government for his release.
Pakistan frequently suspends mobile phone services during rallies of Khan's supporters.
Why Is Pakistan Limiting the Use of VPNs?
Naeemi's declaration on restricting VPNs in Pakistan followed a letter from the Ministry of Interior to the Ministry of Information and Technology, advocating for a VPN ban on the grounds that insurgents are using the service to propagate their agenda.
It said that "VPNs are increasingly being exploited by terrorists to facilitate violent activities." The ministry also wants to deny access to "pornographic" and blasphemous content.
Last week, authorities requested internet users to register their VPNs with Pakistan's media regulator, a measure aimed at increasing surveillance of online activities. This initiative aligns with the government's efforts to monitor and control internet usage, particularly in the context of rising militant attacks in recent months.
On Friday, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) launched an attack on Pakistani troops in Kalat, a district in Balochistan province, resulting in a fierce shootout. According to police and military reports, the confrontation led to the deaths of seven soldiers and six insurgents. The BLA claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press
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