Islamabad (Web Desk): Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi emphatically stated on Thursday that Pakistan will not allow dissemination of baseless, false and concocted propaganda on social media platforms.
Addressing a news conference along with Prime Minister’s Special Representative on Interfaith Harmony Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi in Islamabad today, he pointed out that social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram have been used for propaganda and character assassination of government officials.
The information minister said these platforms will have to control this trend, otherwise, the state of Pakistan will take the strictest possible measures.
Alluding to Article 19 of the Constitution, he said freedom of expression is not absolute, but is subservient to the constitution. Disrespectful language cannot be used against the judiciary, armed forces and the fraternal countries.
He said that some elements are using the social media platforms to instigate violence which is contrary to the law and constitution.
“The government will take firm action against such illegal activities,” the minister said, adding that the social media platforms cannot absolve themselves of their responsibilities.
As regards the judgments of the courts, Murtaza Solangi said the option of review petitions remains available if anybody has complaints or grievances.
He said there were means of legal review against any decision of the judiciary and if anyone had a complaint, a review petition could be filed.
The minister stated categorically that no one would be allowed to take the law into their hands and disturb the peace and tranquility of the country.
“Pakistan is a peaceful country with rule of law and lawlessness and anarchy will not be allowed to be spread in the country,” he added. He said all foreigners living in Pakistan should feel assured that they were safe and their security would be ensured by the Pakistan government.
Speaking on the occasion, Hafiz Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi said the finality of Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) is our faith and that every Muslim is its defender. He said doing politics on this issue is the biggest crime.
The PM’s special representative said that religious freedom of the Muslims and Non-Muslims is enshrined in the constitution.