The microblogging platform X (formerly Twitter) was unexpectedly restored across Pakistan on May 7, 2025, after being inaccessible for nearly 15 months. The platform had been quietly restricted following the general elections in February 2024.
During the suspension, several civil society members approached the courts to challenge the move. In hearings, officials from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) stated that the suspension was carried out under instructions from the Ministry of Interior. According to the Ministry, the decision was driven by concerns over the spread of misleading content in the post-election period, which they said could potentially disturb public order.
Throughout the restriction, many users continued to access the platform using virtual private networks (VPNs). However, following heightened regional tensions — including a reported incident involving Indian aircraft on May 7 — the government restored access to X.
A PTA spokesperson briefly confirmed the restoration , though it remains unclear whether the access is permanent or temporary.
X has an estimated 4.5 million users in Pakistan and holds particular significance due to its role in enabling real-time discussions on political and social issues. News organizations also rely on content from the platform to monitor public sentiment.
Following the restoration, users responded actively to recent national developments, showing solidarity and voicing opinions — a reflection of the platform’s continued relevance in Pakistan’s digital landscape.
