ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has blocked 184 websites and mobile applications linked to gambling and betting activities, according to a written response submitted by the Cabinet Division to the National Assembly on Wednesday.
The update came during a session where the Cabinet Division provided detailed information on steps taken to counter online gambling in the country.
According to the Minister In-Charge of the Cabinet Division, the PTA has taken action to block these platforms in line with the country’s regulatory framework.
However, the response also clarified that while the PTA has the authority to block access to illegal content online, it does not have the legal mandate to initiate criminal proceedings against individuals involved in such activities. Legal action against offenders falls outside the jurisdiction of the PTA and must be pursued by law enforcement agencies.
The Cabinet Division further informed the National Assembly that all government institutions have been instructed not to engage in agreements or partnerships with companies involved in gambling-related activities. This directive aims to ensure that public sector organizations remain free of associations with entities operating outside the bounds of the law.
The statement also acknowledged the limitations of PTA’s authority under current laws. While the PTA can block or restrict access to illegal online content, its powers are confined by the regulatory framework currently in place.
Earlier, the PTA had also issued a general warning to the public regarding the sharing of illegal content on social media platforms.
It urged users to exercise their right to freedom of expression responsibly, cautioning that any misuse of this right—such as spreading hate speech, blasphemous content, inciting violence, or sharing obscene material—constitutes a punishable offense under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016.
The PTA reiterated that it will continue to monitor online platforms and take necessary action against the dissemination of unlawful content to maintain digital integrity and social harmony in the country.
