ISLAMABAD – Pakistanis are about to vote for the 12th general elections this week, but the upcoming polls are taking place in the shadows of security threats as several candidates have been killed while others suffered injuries.
In light of terror threats on election day, authorities are looking into a proposal to suspend mbile phone services and internet disruption in sensitive areas on Wednesday and Thursday.
Ahead of the elections, Pakistani government mulled cutting communication system amidst concerns that militants could leverage online platforms to coordinate terror attacks during the polling process.
As media reports about suspension of mobile and internet services remained suspended, no member of the federal cabinet or PTA official has clarified shutdown.
Pakistanis, who faced internet services suspension during recent political activities, expressed concerns about the implications of mobile phone services shutdown on Election Day.
Such shutdown caused disruption in business operations while it also raised questions on communication blockage especially during elections.
The shutdown proposal was also discussed in the ECP meeting where the law and order situation in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was brought to light.
On the other hand, Balochistan Information Minister Jan Achakzai said internet service will be suspended around sensitive polling station in the region during elections.
He mentioned Turbat, Mach, Chaman and other areas where internet service would be restricted this week as safety of civilians is of paramount importance for the caretaker government.
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