Ban on ‘TikTok’ challenged in SHC

KARACHI: A ban on popular Chinese video app ‘TikTok’ has been challenged in the Sindh High Court (SHC).

In his petition, the petitioner Munib Ahmed, a TikToker, stated that more than 20 million people use this application. “The government’s move to block the app because of a few people misusing it is uncalled for, he argues,” he stated.

Munib Ahmed pleaded with the SHC to declare the ban unlawful. The petition will come up for hearing on 15th October. Last week, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) had placed a ban on TikTok over ‘obscene’ and ‘indecent’ content.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority on Friday banned the TikTok in view of complaints. As per the authority, the app was given significant time to respond and comply with instructions to effectively moderate “unlawful online content”.

“However, the application failed to fully comply with the instructions, therefore, directions were issued for blocking of TikTok application in the country,” the statement said.

Earlier, a lawyer also approached the Lahore High Court (LHC) seeking directives for the federal authorities to ban the app in the country. According to him, the app was disastrous for the young generation as it was not only leading to wastage of time and money but also promoting vulgarity.