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The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) has organized a nationwide protest in Islamabad, resulting in extensive disruptions in mobile and internet services. This has caused challenges for residents and businesses in accessing online services.
Citing security concerns, the government has suspended mobile data and Wi-Fi services in areas that are considered sensitive, such as Islamabad. The internet was also disrupted in numerous cities in Punjab, such as Rawalpindi, Multan, Rajanpur, Gujrat, and Dera Ghazi Khan.
The Interior Ministry has affirmed that the suspension of mobile phone services in Islamabad will coincide with the protest march organized by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf. The suspension is designed to prevent any potential violence and to preserve control over the capital.
Additionally, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook all experienced outages, as reported by users. Users from all over the country have reported experiencing pervasive access issues, with numerous individuals experiencing difficulty utilizing social media and communication platforms.
Numerous users have reported encountering challenges with WhatsApp, including sluggish internet speeds, multimedia messages, and connecting to WhatsApp Web. Downdetector verified that users in Pakistan were encountering difficulties accessing these platforms, in addition to general internet slowdowns.
PTI, the opposition party, is advocating for the liberation of its chief, Imran Khan, from Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail. The government’s actions are perceived as part of a more comprehensive endeavor to limit the mobilization of the PTI. Islamabad has deployed thousands of police and paramilitary personnel to prevent potential unrest.
The situation is continuing to evolve, and the disruption of internet services has prompted apprehension regarding the potential consequences of digital censorship, particularly in the context of politically contentious times.
