Internet shutdown crosses 100 days in Pakistan

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Published: 2026-09-15T08:55:45.307Z • Permanent link

Pakistan's internet shutdown has now crossed the 100-day mark in the Pakistan-administered Kashmir region. The shutdown, which began on February 2, has been attributed to the Pakistani government's efforts to curb terrorism and militant activities in the region. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) had issued a notification stating that the shutdown was necessary to "ensure the security and stability of the country" and to "protect the interests of the nation." However, critics argue that the shutdown is an attempt to suppress free speech and restrict access to information.

The shutdown has been widely condemned by human rights groups and international organizations, including the United Nations, which has expressed concerns over the impact on the region's economy and social development. The World Wide Web Foundation has also criticized the shutdown, stating that it is "a blow to the people of Pakistan-administered Kashmir" and that it "undermines the country's efforts to promote digital literacy and economic growth." The shutdown has also had a significant impact on the region's research community, with many scientists and researchers unable to access online resources and collaborate with international colleagues.

The shutdown has also had a profound impact on the local economy, with many businesses forced to close due to the lack of access to online services and information. The shutdown has also affected the region's tourism industry, with many tourists unable to access online booking platforms and travel information. The shutdown has also had a significant impact on the region's education sector, with many students unable to access online learning resources and educational websites.

The Pakistan-administered Kashmir shutdown has significant implications for the global AI and tech ecosystem. Many major tech companies, including Google, Facebook, and Microsoft, have expressed concern over the shutdown and have called on the Pakistani government to restore access to the internet. The shutdown has also affected the region's research community, with many scientists and researchers unable to access online resources and collaborate with international colleagues. The shutdown has also had a significant impact on the region's economy, with many businesses forced to close due to the lack of access to online services and information.

The shutdown has also had a significant impact on the global supply chain, with many companies relying on online platforms to source goods and services. The shutdown has also affected the region's financial sector, with many banks and financial institutions unable to access online services and conduct transactions. The shutdown has also had a significant impact on the region's policy environment, with many policymakers unable to access online resources and conduct research.

The Pakistan-administered Kashmir shutdown is part of a larger pattern of internet shutdowns around the world. In recent years, several countries have implemented internet shutdowns, citing concerns over national security and terrorism. However, critics argue that these shutdowns are often used as a tool of censorship and repression. The shutdown in Pakistan-administered Kashmir is also part of a broader trend of increasing restrictions on online freedom of expression, with many countries imposing stricter controls on social media and online content.