The Ministry of Religious Affairs has called on the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to block and restrict access to pornographic, blasphemous and other harmful online content, demanding “immediate and early action”.

In a letter to the top telecommunications regulator, the ministry expressed concern that Pakistan “has become one of the leading countries in terms of viewing pornographic content, which is extremely worrying, especially considering its negative impact on public morality and the well-being of citizens.” our society”.

“It has been observed that pornographic and blasphemous material is still easily accessible on many online platforms, despite proactive measures taken by PTA to block such content in line with Supreme Court orders issued in January 2016, May 2016 and March 2018,” he added.

Acknowledging PTA’s efforts to curb this problem by blocking the accessibility of such content, the ministry noted that such materials “are still available online, violating our cultural and religious values.”

“The widespread availability of such content undermines efforts to protect citizens, especially young people, from exposure to harmful materials. It also raises concerns about adherence to the high court’s directives and the authority’s ability to effectively enforce content regulations.”

Considering the sensitivity of the issue, the ministry asked the PTA to take measures to block and restrict access to pornographic, blasphemous and other harmful online content as soon as possible. The report stated, “Early and immediate action is requested.”