An application has been filed in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) challenging the installation of firewalls and the shutdown of the internet.
The petitioner argued that users across the country are facing difficulties accessing social media networks due to these measures. The application asserts that the installation of firewalls infringes on fundamental rights and calls for an immediate halt to such actions.
It requested the court to issue orders ensuring uninterrupted internet access and to make the installation of firewalls subject to stakeholder consultation.
The cabinet secretary, secretary ITT, interior secretary, and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) have been named as parties in the application.
Nationwide internet shutdown challenged in LHC
The nationwide internet shutdown has been legally challenged in Lahore High Court. Registrar’s Office has scheduled an application for a hearing today, with Justice Shakeel Ahmed Nadeem Sarwar presiding over the case.
The application names the federal government and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) among the respondents.
The petitioner argued that the internet and social media apps have been shut down across the country without any prior notice or justification. This shutdown is reportedly affecting businesses and various aspects of daily life.
The petitioner contended that the internet shutdown is a violation of fundamental rights and has requested the court to annul the federal government’s decision.
The petitioner is seeking an order for the complete and immediate restoration of internet services nationwide and hearing is expected to address the significant impact of the internet shutdown on the economy and the daily lives of citizens.
