Pakistani officials on Tuesday lifted the restrictions on the online encyclopedia, Wikipedia, just days after limiting access due to inappropriate content.
Malahat Rab, a representative for the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), informed dpa on Tuesday that “Wikipedia has been restored as per the orders of the prime minister.”
Sharif instructed officials to restore the website late Monday after a ministerial committee reviewed the contentious choice and remarked that “the unintended repercussions of this extensive ban surpass its advantages.”
The premier also established a ministerial committee “to investigate and suggest alternative technical solutions for the removal or restriction of access to objectionable materials posted on Wikipedia and other online resource platforms.”
“As per a notification released by the prime minister’s office, the recommendations will be necessary given our social, cultural, and religious sensitivities.”
The restriction on Wikipedia last week sparked a backlash, and numerous individuals criticized the action on social media.
YouTube and other platforms have similarly faced intermittent bans in Pakistan for content considered blasphemous, immoral, or inappropriate.
The video-sharing service, TikTok, was prohibited multiple times for failing to effectively regulate its content in the past. (dpa/NAN)
