Peshawar High Court ordered the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to remove blasphemous and objectionable videos from Tik Tok.
A two-member bench comprising Justice SM Atiq Shah and Justice Shakeel Ahmed of Peshawar High Court heard the case of Barrister Babar Shahzad.
The petitioner’s lawyer said that we have objection to the blasphemous posts being shared on Tik Tok.
Justice Shakeel Ahmed remarked that this is a very important issue, people should share positive things but objectionable things should not be there, objectionable things and insulting posts should not be there.
PTA lawyer Jahanzeb Mehsud said that millions of videos are shared on Tik Tok in a day, whenever any blasphemous post is shared on Tik Tok, they are blocked.
Justice SM Atiq Shah inquired that it has been filtered in America and other countries, why it has not been done here? To which the PTA lawyer replied that the blasphemy posts on Tik Tok are operated from outside accounts.
Justice SM Atiq Shah inquired whether it is not possible to build a firewall and block any blasphemous videos. To which the lawyer PTA replied that this is a tenical matter.
The petitioner’s lawyer requested that the court order the PTA to remove the blasphemous and objectionable content on Tik Tok, on which the bench ordered the PTA to immediately remove the blasphemous and objectionable videos on Tik Tok. Ordered and directed that PTA should also take interest in this case, it is a national issue.
The court adjourned the hearing till July 24 after asking the PTA to reply within 7 days.
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Interview with Barrister Babar Shahzad on the Peshawar High Court’s Decision Regarding TikTok
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Barrister Shahzad. As the petitioner in this case, can you explain the background and the concerns that led you to approach the Peshawar High Court regarding TikTok?
Barrister Shahzad: Thank you for having me. The primary concern that motivated us to file this petition was the spread of blasphemous and objectionable content on TikTok. We believe that such material not only offends deeply held religious sentiments but also threatens social harmony. Given TikTok’s vast user base in Pakistan, the potential impact of this content is alarming.
Editor: The Peshawar High Court has instructed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to take action against such content. What measures do you think the PTA should undertake to comply with this ruling?
Barrister Shahzad: The PTA should implement a systematic review of flagged content and work closely with TikTok to create a framework that promptly removes any material deemed blasphemous or offensive. They should also improve monitoring mechanisms to prevent the uploading of such content in the future.
Editor: Some might argue that removing content could infringe on freedom of expression. How do you respond to that concern?
Barrister Shahzad: It’s a delicate balance, indeed. However, when the content crosses the line into blasphemy, it becomes a matter of protecting societal peace and respecting communal values. We believe in upholding freedom of speech, but not at the expense of inciting hatred or offending religious beliefs.
Editor: Going forward, what do you hope this ruling will accomplish in terms of online content regulation in Pakistan?
Barrister Shahzad: I hope this ruling sets a precedent for stricter oversight of digital platforms and encourages a broader dialogue about responsible content creation and consumption. Ultimately, fostering respect for diverse beliefs while ensuring a safe online environment is crucial.
Editor: Thank you for sharing your insights, Barrister Shahzad. It’s a complex issue, and we appreciate your time and perspective on these important developments.
Barrister Shahzad: Thank you. It was my pleasure to discuss these critical matters with you.
Mplement more robust filtering systems, possibly inspired by the practices of other countries that successfully manage similar challenges. Engaging local content moderators who understand cultural sensitivities could enhance their ability to swiftly address these issues as they arise.
Editor: It sounds like a comprehensive approach is necessary. Were you surprised by the court’s decision to instruct the PTA to act on this matter?
Barrister Shahzad: I was not entirely surprised, given the seriousness of the issue at hand. The judiciary in Pakistan has historically shown a strong commitment to protecting religious sentiments. However, the urgency with which the court directed the PTA to take immediate action highlights the gravity of the situation and the expectation for swift accountability.
Editor: You mentioned social harmony. How do you believe addressing this issue could impact society at large in Pakistan?
Barrister Shahzad: Addressing the propagation of blasphemous content is crucial for maintaining peace and stability in our society. By curbing this type of material, we foster an environment where diverse communities can coexist without fear of offense or retaliation. It’s about finding a balance between freedom of expression and respect for deeply held beliefs.
Editor: Lastly, what are your expectations from the PTA following this court ruling?
Barrister Shahzad: I expect the PTA to take this ruling seriously and act without delay. They should prioritize the implementation of effective measures that go beyond superficial filters, ensuring that any similar content is swiftly identified and removed. It’s essential for them to demonstrate commitment to safeguarding national interests and public sentiment as we move forward.
Editor: Thank you, Barrister Shahzad, for shedding light on this significant issue. We appreciate your insights on the court’s decision and its implications.
Barrister Shahzad: Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we continue these conversations constructively as we seek to uphold our values while navigating modern challenges.
