Imran Khan Criticizes Uninformed Individuals Labeling Social Media as ‘Digital Terrorism’

Digital Terrorism

Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and currently incarcerated in Adiala Jail, has criticized what he describes as misguided labeling of social media dissent as “digital terrorism.”

In a statement made on Wednesday, Khan condemned individuals who lack a comprehensive understanding of social media but still label online criticism as “digital terrorism.”

The criticism comes amid a broader crackdown by the military on online dissent. In May, the military labeled certain expressions as “digital terrorism,” declaring a firm stance against anti-military campaigns proliferating across social media platforms.

This position was announced following the 83rd Formation Commanders Conference, reflecting a hardening stance towards online criticism and hinting at a possible crackdown on dissent.

The recent measures by the government and military have resulted in numerous arrests and legal actions against journalists and social media users accused of spreading “negative propaganda” against the military and the state.

Additionally, there have been several instances of restricted internet access and bans on prominent social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter).

This intensified reaction from the military coincided with a post on Imran Khan’s X account, where he urged his followers to read the Hamoodur Rehman Commission Report, which deals with the events leading to the separation of East Pakistan.

The term “digital terrorism” was also mentioned in the 265th Corps Commanders’ Conference earlier this month.

During this conference, it was asserted that politically motivated digital terrorism, allegedly supported by foreign elements, was intended to create national despondency through the spread of lies, fake news, and propaganda.

In response, PTI criticized the military’s approach, arguing that labeling free speech as “digital terrorism” could harm both the country and its institutions.

Earlier this week, ISPR Director General Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif claimed that a false narrative was being propagated against the army on social media, with “digital terrorists” using various digital tools to impose their will on society, likening their tactics to those of terrorists.

Imran Khan, responding to these developments, argued that labeling those who support his party as “digital terrorists” could deepen the divide between the military and the populace.

He stressed that such accusations could have dangerous consequences for the nation, drawing a parallel with the events of 1971, which led to severe national repercussions.

Khan criticized the government’s and military’s stance, suggesting that the suppression of dissent and labeling of opposition as terrorists undermines societal ethics and constitutional supremacy. He asserted that advocating for constitutional supremacy and freedom is not treasonous.

Further, Khan mentioned that PTI’s leaders and workers are being unfairly targeted, asserting that the party has always promoted peaceful and constitutional struggle. He emphasized that the PTI has never engaged in violent protests and remains committed to peaceful political and legal processes.

In response to media reports about his alleged incitement to protest outside the General Headquarters (GHQ), Khan clarified that no such call for violent protests was made. He reaffirmed that PTI’s political training is grounded in non-violence.

Additionally, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has criticized PTI for allegedly engaging in a propaganda campaign against the armed forces, asserting a zero-tolerance policy for such actions.