A petition challenging slow internet speeds and the installation of an internet firewall is scheduled for a hearing on Monday at the Islamabad High Court (IHC). Chief Justice Aamer Farooq will address the four objections raised by the Registrar’s Office against the petition.
The Registrar’s Office questioned how the petitioner’s livelihood was affected by the internet issues, citing a lack of supporting documents. They also pointed out that the Pakistan Information Commission should have been approached first for information and questioned why the petition was filed directly with the high court. Additionally, the petition challenges the firewall installation but lacks any attached order or notification, and some language used in the petition was deemed inappropriate.
The petition, filed by a senior journalist through Advocate Imaan Mazari, urges the court to recognize internet access as a fundamental human right under the Constitution. It demands a halt to the installation of the firewall, arguing that it infringes on citizens’ basic rights. The petition also calls for stakeholder consultations and safeguards for fundamental rights before any further installation.
The respondents named in the petition include the Cabinet Secretary, Secretary of Information Technology and Telecommunication, Interior Secretary, Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and the Ministry of Human Rights. The petition claims that the firewall has severely impacted internet speeds, negatively affecting the digital economy and particularly harming the youth.
A recent report highlights that the suspension of 3G and 4G services is causing daily losses of Rs1.3 billion. Furthermore, the petition notes that social media networks have been difficult to access for over a month.
In a talk show, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif mentioned the need to control social media, stating that even developed countries filter anti-state content. However, a claim by PML-N MNA Daniyal Chaudhry about the use of firewalls in the US and UK was later debunked.
The petition seeks the immediate restoration and guarantee of uninterrupted internet access for citizens. It also requests that a detailed report on the firewall be provided by the respondents and that the firewall’s installation be suspended until a final decision is made.
