ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry on Monday accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party of using social media to spread false narratives and undermine national security.
Chaudhry said terrorist groups were also exploiting social media platforms to run propaganda campaigns.
He briefed international media on terrorism targeting Pakistan and the role of online networks in shaping public opinion.
Chaudhry said the government supported freedom of expression but would not compromise on national sovereignty.
He accused PTI of running an organised campaign against state institutions through social media.
He said PTI has used online platforms for propaganda for a long time.
Chaudhry claimed paid trends were routinely run on social media, with users paid per message.
He alleged PTI used social media to push a specific political narrative.
He said PTI’s social media accounts were being operated from outside Pakistan.
Chaudhry said authorities had collected evidence of propaganda directly from social media platforms.
He claimed instructions for online campaigns were shared through WhatsApp groups.
He said funds were provided to ensure trends gained traction.
Chaudhry said information on individuals involved in online propaganda had been gathered.
He alleged coordination with foreign-based companies to run social media trends.
He said fake accounts were created to amplify propaganda-driven campaigns.
Chaudhry claimed most elements shaping false narratives were based abroad rather than inside Pakistan.
He warned those involved to stop or face strict legal action.
Chaudhry said Pakistan condemned terrorism anywhere in the world.
He said Pakistan remained one of the countries most affected by terrorism.
Chaudhry said terrorists had no religion or nationality.
He said religion was often misused to justify violence.
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He said social media trends should not be mistaken for public opinion and often amounted to propaganda.
