ISLAMABAD — The Council of Islamic Ideology, Pakistan’s leading body of clerics, has announced that the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) is not permissible under Islamic law. This declaration was made public on Monday amidst efforts by the Ministry of Interior to implement a ban on VPN services that enable individuals to bypass government-imposed internet restrictions and censorship.

Raghib Naeemi, who leads the Council, explained that Shariah principles permit the government to intervene in activities perceived to contribute to the “spread of evil.” He emphasized that any platform that facilitates the sharing of controversial, blasphemous, or otherwise harmful content should be immediately prohibited.

Since February 2023, millions of citizens in Pakistan have faced difficulties accessing the X social media platform, which was blocked by the government in anticipation of parliamentary elections. VPNs have become a crucial means for users to access this platform by concealing their online activities.

While authorities justify their push to outlaw VPNs as a method to combat militancy, critics argue that this move is an infringement on free speech. Unlike in many other nations where VPN use is legal, some countries impose restrictions or bans in response to concerns about government surveillance and censorship.

Among those turning to VPNs in Pakistan are supporters of the imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan. These supporters have organized a protest march towards Islamabad on an upcoming Sunday, urging the government to facilitate Khan’s release. The authorities often suspend mobile service during gatherings of Khan’s supporters to manage the situation. However, Naeemi’s recent ruling, which categorizes VPNs as un-Islamic, has taken many by surprise.

Naeemi’s declaration followed a communication from the Ministry of Interior to the Ministry of Information and Technology, requesting a ban on VPNs. The rationale provided was that these services are being misused by militants to advance their agendas, claiming that “VPNs are increasingly being exploited by terrorists to facilitate violent activities.” Additionally, the ministry aims to block access to “pornographic” and blasphemous content via such networks.

In a related initiative, authorities recently urged internet users to register their VPNs with Pakistan’s media regulatory body. This would allow for enhanced monitoring of VPN users and their online activities. Currently, Pakistan is facing an uptick in militant violence, as evidenced by a recent attack by a separatist group—the Baloch Liberation Army—in Balochistan province, which resulted in the deaths of seven soldiers and six insurgents. The BLA has openly claimed responsibility for this attack, highlighting the ongoing security challenges faced by the country.