PTA blocks 15 websites

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 12 August 2012

The PTA has taken action against 15 websites featuring clips of notable politicians and a television personality. Concerns over censorship and legality have been raised by internet service providers.

Summary

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Saturday moved to block more than a dozen websites over YouTube clips featuring two prominent parliamentarians, and allegations of a secret marriage of the boss of the country's state-run television.

The order, from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), affects some 15 sites, which featured recordings of mobile phone conversations between a male and female politician of the breakaway faction of the ruling coalition partner, Pakistan Muslim League.

They also contained clips of a press conference by a television artist, talking about her apparent secret marriage with the managing director of Pakistan Television (PTV).

When contacted, PTA official Muhammad Ali, who issued the orders, refused to discuss the matter, saying he was not authorized to speak to the media. However, another official of the watchdog told DPA on anonymity that the orders were issued because the clips involved "influential persons".

Internet service providers expressed reservations, calling it a bid to censor Internet traffic in the country.

"Blocking of websites containing general or political information is not in the domain of PTA; this is like censoring the Internet, which is against the law," said spokesman Wahajus Siraj. "We will take up the matter with PTA and if our reservations aren’t attended, we'll challenge it in the court.” - DPA

KEY POINTS:

• PTA blocks 15 controversial websites in Pakistan.
• Websites included political clips and marriage allegations.
• ISPs criticize the move as censorship.
• PTA official declined to comment on the order.
• Legal challenges may arise if concerns are not addressed.