Hina Bayat’s 5 Criticisms of Internet restriction

Bayat further criticized the government’s claims of managing the economy by stating that in parallel to that the internet speeds are throttled frequently across Pakistan.

The routine of the slow internet speed in Pakistan has been criticized by veteran Pakistan’s actress Hina Khawaja Bayat who alleged that the internet had started threatening people’s lives, especially business.

The recent slowdown in internet speeds across Pakistan has sparked widespread concern, particularly among freelancers and small business owners who rely heavily on the internet for their livelihoods. Amid growing frustration, actress Bayat took to social media to express her dismay over the apparent contradiction between the government’s promises of economic improvement and the harsh reality of sluggish internet services.

Slow Internet: A Threat to the Economy?

Bayat’s concerns resonate with many Pakistanis who have been struggling with slow internet speeds in recent weeks. She spoke of the contradictory situation as follows: “On the one hand, we cry over the poor economy, and on the other hand, the government has capped internet speeds across the country.” This statement underscores a critical issue: how can an economy, particularly one struggling as much as Pakistan’s, improve when essential services like the internet are being compromised?

The Internet is not just a convenience; it is a lifeline for many businesses. From e-commerce platforms to freelance work, a stable and fast internet connection is crucial. The frequent disruptions and slow speeds are not just an inconvenience—they are actively harming businesses, potentially leading to widespread unemployment.

Freelancers on Fiverr Face Uncertainty

The situation took a more alarming turn when reports surfaced that Pakistani freelancers on Fiverr, a popular online marketplace for freelance services, were being shown as “unavailable” on the platform. This development has caused significant uncertainty and concern among the freelancing community, many of whom rely on such platforms as their primary source of income.

The issue raises important questions about the government’s approach to managing the economy and internet infrastructure. The following question by Bayat – How do you plan to improve the economy by shutting down the internet? What are you afraid of – reflects the sentiments of many amid feeling that the government’s actions are destructive.

Government’s Firewall Initiative: A Controversial Move

The concerns surrounding the slow Network speeds are further compounded by reports that the government is installing a firewall system, leading to severe disruptions in internet services across the country. This has been reported by both social media users and international news agencies, such as Reuters.

The firewall initiative, which has been undergoing trials in phases, is believed to be a measure aimed at enhancing national security. However, its implementation has been controversial, particularly because of its impact on internet speeds and accessibility. For many, the firewall represents a significant overreach that is stifling communication and hindering economic activity.

PTA’s Response and the Road Ahead

In response to the mounting criticism, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has denied that the recent network issues are related to the firewall initiative. Talking to the sources in the telecom industry about the firewall system it was learned that the trial phase has run its course and it is hoped that the problem will be sorted out soon so that the network will be back from where it had left within the next two weeks say senior analysts.

However, this assurance has done little to quell the frustration among internet users. The slow speeds, coupled with the ongoing ban on X (formerly Twitter), which has been in place for almost six months due to “security concerns,” have only added to the difficulties faced by freelancers and businesses.

The Broader Implications

The situation in Pakistan serves as a stark reminder of the critical role that Network infrastructure plays in modern economies. In a globalized world, where much of commerce and communication takes place online, a stable and fast internet connection is not just a luxury but a necessity.

Bayat’s accusation that the government is “destroying the economy and businesses” by restricting network access may seem extreme to some, but it reflects a genuine fear among many Pakistanis. As she put it, “Are you trying to end Pakistan? You are doing what our enemies could not do – are you going to destroy the country this way? “

Conclusion: A Call for Action

As the situation unfolds, it is clear that there is an urgent need for the government to address the issues with internet connectivity. The economic stakes are too high, and the potential for harm to businesses and individuals is too great to ignore. Bayat’s plea to the country’s top officials to resolve the issue of slow internet speeds “as soon as possible” should be heeded.

In a world increasingly reliant on digital infrastructure, ensuring reliable network access is not just about convenience—it is about safeguarding the future of the nation’s economy. The government’s actions in the coming weeks will be closely watched, and their impact will be felt by millions across the country.