Demand to ban social media during Muharram in Pakistan

Fear of violence between Shia and Sunni Muslims

Islamabad (Pakistan) – During Muharram, there might be a ban on social media in Pakistan. Several States, including Punjab, have made this request to the Central Government. The States fear that violence may erupt during Muharram and hate messages may spread rapidly through social media. Muharram begins on July 7.

Ban social media during Muharram in #Pakistan. – States appeal to the Center.

Concerned States fear of a possible violent clash between Shia and Sunni Mu$|!m$.

👉 Irrespective of the location, fanatic Mu$|!m$ always indulge in violence.

They attack people of other faiths, and… pic.twitter.com/4R7VgcJ786

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) July 6, 2024

A statement from Pakistan’s Ministry of Home Affairs indicated that only Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif can decide on the social media ban. No decision has been made yet regarding the ban.

What is Muharram ?

Muharram is a significant observance for Shia Muslims, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. During this time, Shia Muslims organise large gatherings and processions. There is deep-seated animosity between Shia and Sunni Muslims, leading to frequent attacks by extremist Sunni groups on Shia processions during Muharram. The fear of bombings or suicide attacks is ever-present in Pakistan during this period.

Editorial Perspective

No matter where they are, fanatic Muslims engage in violence 24/7. Sometimes they attack followers of other religions, they also engage in violence among themselves. They commit violence as a minority population, also as a majority population. The above demand is not surprising considering such affection towards violence among fanatic Muslims.