A petition has been filed in the Lahore High Court (LHC) seeking an immediate ban on popular social media platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok.
The federal government and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) have been named as respondents in the case.
The petitioner argues that the unchecked use of social media has contributed to the rise of unethical behavior. “Almost everyone in Pakistan now has a YouTube channel, which is being exploited for blackmailing and uploading immoral content. These videos are gaining views for financial gain,” the petition claims.
It also raises concerns about fake videos and the alleged exploitation of platforms like Instagram and TikTok for profit through unethical means. “Anyone can upload videos on YouTube and Facebook without a license,” the petition states.
Furthermore, the petition argues that content creators are undermining societal values by featuring female family members in their vlogs, which it claims is eroding traditional family values. It urges the court to implement the Citizen Protection Rules to regulate social media platforms.
In addition to requesting the shutdown of YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, and other platforms, the petition calls for a mandatory licensing system for content creators. It asks the Lahore High Court to issue an order to close down all social media platforms.
Separately, another petition has been filed in the LHC addressing the recent reduction in internet speed and the closure of X (formerly Twitter). The petition contends that restricting access to X infringes on basic human rights and results in significant financial losses for citizens.
“People are losing millions of rupees due to the reduction in internet speed. This is an urgent issue, and the main petition should be scheduled for hearing,” the plea emphasizes. “The court should restore access to X and address the internet speed reduction.”
