Social media platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, along with internet services, faced widespread disruptions across Pakistan as the government imposed measures to curb PTI convoys heading to Islamabad for a protest rally.
Platforms went offline for hours without official explanation, raising concerns over internet freedom. Downdetector.com confirmed widespread access issues.
Residents from cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi reported slow internet, blocked VPNs, and restricted media sharing. Critics labeled the outages a violation of free speech, accusing the government of suppressing public discourse while using these platforms themselves.
State Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja defended the restrictions, calling PTI’s mobilization a “Fitna Call.” Meanwhile, security remains tight in Islamabad, with heavy police deployment and blocked highways, as PTI leader Imran Khan urged supporters to rally at D-Chowk.
