IT Minister Refutes Internet Slowdown Claims, Blames VPNs for Connectivity Issues

Minister of State for Information Technology, Shiza Fatima, addressed public concerns on Sunday, emphatically stating that there has been no internet shutdown or intentional slowdown in Pakistan.

Speaking at a press conference, she explained that the difficulties people faced in accessing internet services were largely due to the use of VPNs installed on their devices, which some users resorted to after experiencing issues downloading certain apps.

“The government is fully aware of the frustration over poor internet services,” Shiza Fatima acknowledged. “We are committed to ensuring that people no longer face difficulties in accessing these services.”

Refuting allegations that the government aimed to suppress dissent, she reassured that supporting the IT industry remains a priority.

Highlighting the sector’s progress, she announced that this year has seen record exports of IT products from Pakistan. “The IT sector is at the top of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s priorities,” she said, adding that investment in the country has surged due to initiatives launched by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).

Shiza Fatima also unveiled plans for new IT infrastructure, including the construction of IT parks in Islamabad and Karachi, which are expected to create over 10,000 jobs. Additionally, she announced the establishment of 250 e-rozgar centers across the country to boost employment in the digital sector.