Telecom regulator clarifies notification of YouTube shutdown is old

Published
0

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) on Friday issued a statement clarifying that a notice about the shutdown of video-sharing platform YouTube is from 2012.

Then-prime minister Raja Pervez Ashraf ordered the immediate shutdown of YouTube in September 2012, in the aftermath of protests against the anti-Islam film Innocence of Muslims.

According to today’s statement, the telecom body noted that the press release is circulating on social media, causing confusion about the status of the site.

“It has come to the attention of the PTA that an old press release regarding the shutdown of YouTube in Pakistan — originally issued in September 2012 in compliance with the orders of the Supreme Court … is being recirculated online, causing unnecessary confusion among the public,” the statement read.

“PTA clarifies that the content being circulated is outdated and irrelevant to the current circumstances. At present, no instructions have been issued by PTA to block or shut down YouTube or any other social media platform,” it added.

The public was advised to rely solely on the telecom body’s official website and verified social media accounts for accurate information.

Opinion

Editorial

Referendum talk
Updated 14 Nov, 2026

Referendum talk

Unless the PPP is deliberately using Sindh as a bargaining chip, it should issue a clarification with a clear, consistent position on new administrative units, not one tailored to protect its home turf.
Mineral wealth
Updated 14 Nov, 2026

Mineral wealth

Minerals should not be presented as a solution to Pakistan’s long-term economic difficulties. The aim should be to build an industrial base rather than export raw materials.
Late diagnosis
14 Nov, 2026

Late diagnosis

AS we mark World Diabetes Day today, Pakistan faces a troubling question: how many people are living with diabetes...
Climate challenges
Updated 13 Nov, 2026

Climate challenges

Pakistan cannot afford to confront its climate crises one disaster, one season and one international summit at a time.
Under fire
Updated 13 Nov, 2026

Under fire

KP police are increasingly vulnerable as they play a frontline role in ongoing operations against terrorists.
Used car imports
13 Nov, 2026

Used car imports

THE government’s effort to restrict used car imports appears to be faltering. So suggest the numbers. Despite...