پاکستان میں سوشل میڈیا ریاست کی طرف سے جبر اور قانونی ترامیم کا نشانہ بن رہا ہے، ایچ آر سی پی

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, in its report on the situation of freedom of expression in the country over the past 2 years, said that social media, which is a platform for dissent, is being subjected to state repression and legal amendments, such as the amendments made to the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (PEC) that have increased surveillance and scrutiny of activists and digital influencers, which have effectively silenced critical voices. The killing of journalist Arshad Sharif of the private TV channel ARY in Kenya in 2022 was a turning point. Newsrooms were gripped by fear and journalists were resorting to self-censorship to protect themselves from being targeted. Highlighting the atmosphere of fear, a colleague said that the sight of Arshad’s body triggered silence and censorship in the media. The report highlighted the contradictory nature of censorship in Pakistan and that many voices were silenced while those associated with state interests were allowed to operate freely. This double standard is a selective crackdown. Reflecting, despite the oppressive environment, HRCP notes a ray of hope. Social media, although heavily monitored by Pakistani institutions, is serving as a space for resistance. Public backlash against censorship is growing, with citizens demanding transparency and accountability.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan report also identified the emergence of new digital platforms as a potential counterweight to the suppression of traditional media. However, the lack of trust in traditional media has been exploited by various interest groups, including big business, the far-right and the establishment, to advance their agenda. The HRCP warned that the selective silencing of voices will not only weaken democracy, but also erode public trust in institutions. The report called for urgent measures to protect the fundamental right to freedom of expression and stressed that the survival of a democratic society depends on the ability of its citizens to speak freely.