Legal Petitions Submitted in IHC, LHC Against Internet Shutdown and Firewall Measures

Pakistan-application has been submitted to the Islamabad High Court (IHC) challenging the implementation of firewalls and the recent internet shutdown. The petitioner claims that these measures are causing widespread difficulties for users across the country in accessing social media networks. The application argues that the installation of firewalls violates fundamental rights and calls for an immediate cessation of such actions. It further requests the court to mandate uninterrupted internet access and to require that any firewall installation be subject to stakeholder consultation. The cabinet secretary, ITT secretary, interior secretary, and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) have been named as respondents in the case.

Pakistan experiences internet slowdown as government increases surveillance efforts.

In a parallel development, the nationwide internet shutdown has also been legally contested in the Lahore High Court (LHC). The Registrar’s Office has scheduled the application for a hearing today, with Justice Shakeel Ahmed Nadeem Sarwar overseeing the proceedings. The petition lists the federal government and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) as respondents.

The petitioner asserts that the internet and social media apps have been shut down across the country without any prior notice or justification, causing significant disruptions to businesses and daily life. The application contends that the shutdown infringes on fundamental rights and seeks a court order to overturn the federal government’s decision. The petitioner is requesting the complete and immediate restoration of internet services nationwide, emphasizing the severe impact of the shutdown on the economy and the daily lives of citizens.

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