No More Social Media Bans: Pakistan Wants Big Tech to Open Local HQs

Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has officially dismissed reports regarding an impending ban on social media platforms in Pakistan. Speaking on a private news channel this Saturday, Tarar clarified that the government has no intention of shutting down digital platforms.

Instead, the government wants global tech companies to establish physical offices in Pakistan. Tarar emphasised that the priority remains regulation and local presence, not outright prohibitions.

Social Media Regulation Over Restriction

Tarar termed the assumptions about potential restrictions as unfounded, emphasising that the government has no intention of shutting down digital platforms. He argued that the priority lies in regulation rather than outright prohibitions, explicitly stating that the government wants global tech companies to establish physical offices in Pakistan.

However, his statements present a conflict within the federal cabinet. His comments follow recent briefings from Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry and Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel, who both suggested the possibility of restricting X. While his colleagues hinted at bans, Tarar appears focused on compliance rather than closure.

This development marks a positive shift in the attitude of the government of Pakistan towards social media platforms. The prioritisation of proper regulation over unnecessary restrictions is a breath of fresh air for Pakistanis who often feel trapped. Pakistanis have only one honest way of questioning corrupt authorities in the shape of social media. Social media bans negatively impact a generation of young people, who cannot thrive without a constant flow of unbiased information.

“Regulation over Restriction” should be the norm when it comes to social platforms.