Minister Attaullah Tarar Advocates for Social Media Regulations Amid Concerns Over Free Speech

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has sparked debate by advocating for stricter rules and regulations on social media. Speaking to the press, Tarar explained the government’s stance on recent moves to impose restrictions on platforms like YouTube and other social media networks.

Vloggers and YouTubers: A New Era, A New Challenge

According to Tarar, the ease with which anyone with a mobile phone can become a Vlogger or YouTuber has necessitated the need for regulatory oversight. “Today, every mobile phone owner becomes a Vlogger and YouTuber,” he stated, emphasizing that the rise of user-generated content has created challenges that need to be addressed.

The Balance Between Regulation and Freedom of Expression

Tarar acknowledged that any attempt to regulate social media is often met with concerns about curbing freedom of expression. He noted, “Whenever there is an initiative in the country related to the rules of social media, it is said that the freedom of expression has started to be restricted.” However, he argued that without some form of editorial control, the vast amount of content being generated online could become unmanageable.

A Call for Editorial Oversight

To address these concerns, Tarar suggested the formation of a regulatory body that would bring social media content under editorial control. This body, he proposed, would be responsible for overseeing the vast amounts of information shared online and ensuring that it adheres to certain standards.

While the proposal aims to create a more controlled and possibly safer digital environment, it also raises questions about the impact on freedom of speech and the role of government in regulating online content. As the debate continues, the challenge will be finding a balance between maintaining order and upholding the principles of free expression in the digital age.