PTA Takes Action against Night-Time Call Packages

December 24, 2012 8:44 pm 1 comment

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censorship censorship in Pakistan democracy freedom of communication freedom of expression freedom of information Islamabad High Court Kuwait Times low call rates mobile communication mobile users night-time packages Pakistani youth telecom censorship terrorist activities text messages unnecessary calls vulgar calls youth

According to a report in Kuwait Times, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) asked different telecom companies to look into the matter of late night calls made to disturb people, usually of vulgar nature. PTA pinpointed the low call rates for night-time and various other packages that make these unnecessary calls possible. To take control of such vulgar calls, PTA had asked telecom companies to stop providing these night-time call packages.

Based on the directives of the PTA and the government, telecom companies have been ordered to ban these night-time call packages and start them for other hours which are appropriate. Besides vulgar calls that mobile users receive, there is also a fear from the government to protect the youth from getting involved in indecent activities. Banning of these night-time call packages is part of the PTA’s crackdown on possible wrong-doings in the country. There is a genuine fear for terrorist activities taking strength through mobile communication.

Just last year, PTA banned around 1,700 words from text messages to prevent abuse. Besides this censorship, telecom companies have also faced ban on their services from time to time for security concerns. The current Pakistani government lauds itself for promoting what they call democracy. But with the extent censorship in freedom of expression, freedom of information and freedom of communication, it is such a false pride.

In order to play their own part in this fight against censorship, telecom companies have contested the decision in Islamabad High Court. Based on the judicial decision of the case, the action will be taken. Although these night-time call packages might be harmful in some ways, yet for responsible citizens it is a useful means to communicate round the clock, with an advantage at lower rates at night.

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  • Late night packages Pakistan mein band hone chahye, youth kharab ho rahi hai

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