The Pakistan Telecom Authority (PAT) has confirmed that internet will function smoothly on Thursday- the polling day.
Rejecting rumours and reports regarding internet shutdown, the authority made it clear that the users will be provided online services without any problems. However, in case of any technical issues which is not in control of the authority and could happen any time, the supply could be disconnected.
The government on Thursday hinted at the possibility of internet services in the country in case of any security issue.
Pakistan is holding general election on Thursday (February 8) and over 120 million voters will exercise their right to choose their representatives.
Following the government statement, the Amnesty International has called for smooth functioning of the internet. The online services in Pakistan witnessed frequent cut in past weeks, creating hurdles for millions of users to use social media apps. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) termed it a scheme to affect its social media campaign as the former ruling party is virtually blocked by the state to run physical campaigns due to multiple factors.
“The government could suspend the services if it receives a request from a district or province in view of the security situation,” said Gohar Ijaz, the caretaker interior minister yesterday.
He said the government had so far not made any decision to suspend the service on Election Day.
However, the PTA made it clear that internet supply will not be affected tomorrow.
