Internet blockade.

In an era where the internet has become an integral part of not just our lives but also the country's economy, the sudden disruption of internet services for more than 72 hours in Pakistan following Imran Khan's arrest sent shockwaves across the nation. The incident raised numerous concerns about the impact on communication, commerce and the overall functioning of a digitally interconnected society.

To put it bluntly, the directives from the Interior Ministry to force an internet blockade in an attempt to curb protests was deeply problematic, not just because it shows authoritarian tendencies but also because it resulted in wide-ranging and significant consequences. During the three-day period, the nation experienced severe paralysis, leading to substantial economic losses. Businesses suffered losses amounting to approximately Rs30 billion, while the IT sector alone incurred daily losses ranging from $3-4 million. The Asia Internet Coalition warned of reputational damage to the investment situation in Pakistan. The move also drew widespread criticism from organisations like GSMA and Amnesty International...