The Ministry of Interior has refused to explain the February 8 mobile and internet service shutdown during the general elections, citing concerns over national security.
A formal request was made to the Pakistan Information Commission seeking details on the government’s reasoning for the communication blackout. In response, the Ministry of Interior classified the information under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, asserting that public disclosure would compromise national security. The Information Commission subsequently exempted the ministry from releasing the requested details.
On March 6, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) confirmed that it acted under direct instructions from the federal government and the Ministry of Interior to suspend mobile phone services on Feb 8, the polling day. The PTA’s role in executing the shutdown was part of a broader security measure on election day, although specifics regarding the nature of the threat remain undisclosed.
