(Web Desk) - The popular microblogging site 'X,' formerly known as Twitter, has been inaccessible across Pakistan for over a week.
Despite a brief interval when the site was accessible, users are now reporting a persistent outage, even when using Virtual Private Network (VPN) services.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the government agency responsible for overseeing telecommunications, hasn't released any official statement regarding the suspension of the service.
This lack of transparency has only intensified the frustration among users who heavily rely on 'X' for information and news updates. Users who initially turned to VPNs as a workaround have also hit a roadblock, as the microblogging site remains inaccessible.
The situation has raised concerns about the government's stance on digital freedom and freedom of speech. The outage has not gone unnoticed by the public, with many expressing their discontent on various platforms.
Criticism has been directed towards the government and the IT minister for what is perceived as an attack on freedom of speech and a hindrance to the revenue generated by the country's thriving IT professionals.
Earlier, the Sindh High Court issued a directive to restore access to 'X' across Pakistan, recognising the site's significance for information dissemination. However, despite court's order, there has been no implementation, leaving users and advocates of digital freedom in a state of dismay.
The suspension of 'X' has broader implications, impacting not only the general public but also businesses and professionals who rely on the platform for communication, networking, and staying informed about the latest developments. The longer the outage persists, the more severe the consequences may be for the nation's digital landscape.
As the public awaits an official statement from the PTA and the government, concerns about the potential ramifications of such a prolonged suspension continue to grow.