ISLAMABAD: The federal government of Pakistan has imposed a ban on UK-based YouTuber Adil Farooq Raja, who has been living in self-imposed exile in the United Kingdom, and has included his name in the Fourth Schedule under the Anti-Terrorism Act.
The decision is part of a broader move by the authorities to tighten action against individuals accused of involvement in activities deemed harmful to national interests.
In this regard, the government has taken what it described as a major step to restrict the activities of Adil Farooq Raja, alleging his involvement in anti-state actions. In this sense, the federal cabinet approved the ban on Adil Raja, after which the interior department issued the required notification to enforce the decision.
The move provides legal backing for monitoring and restricting individuals accused of promoting narratives considered a threat to state security. Furthermore, the notification issued by the Ministry of Interior states that the ban has been imposed due to alleged involvement in activities against the state.
It further notes that action has been taken under Section 11-EE of the Anti-Terrorism Act, which relates to individuals accused of spreading anti-state narratives or supporting activities that may undermine public order and national security.
Moreover, the inclusion in the Fourth Schedule allows law enforcement agencies to keep closer watch on the movements and activities of listed individuals.
It may also lead to further legal measures, subject to ongoing assessments by relevant authorities. They added that the state remains committed to safeguarding national security while upholding the rule of law.
The decision has drawn attention amid ongoing debates over the use of digital platforms and social media by individuals residing abroad.
