
Bypassing Pakistan’s internet restrictions, country’s PM Shehbaz Sharif sparked controversy after using a VPN to access the banned social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to congratulate U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. His post was flagged by the platform, noting that X is banned in Pakistan and accessing it via VPN is unlawful.
This action has raised questions about potential legal implications, as the use of VPNs is restricted in Pakistan under local cybersecurity laws. Actually, Pakistan’s Telecommunications Authority (PTA) restricts VPN usage without official registration, viewing it as a tool that can mask online activity and bypass government censorship. Legal experts are discussing whether the Prime Minister’s action could lead to repercussions, though high-ranking officials are rarely subjected to legal actions for such infractions.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions in Pakistan regarding internet restrictions and surveillance. VPN restrictions in the country have been justified as necessary for security, but many citizens, businesses, and even government officials rely on them to access global content.
Critics argue that as the head of government, Sharif should adhere to the laws and regulations he enforces. Some even call for legal action, suggesting that his actions warrant investigation and potential prosecution.
According to the Pakistani law, unauthorized use of VPNs to access banned content is prohibited. If found guilty of violating these regulations, individuals can face penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Given the Prime Minister’s position, any legal proceedings would require thorough investigation and adherence to due process. Though the potential for legal action here remains uncertain, but this situation sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals and businesses under restrictive internet policies.
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