The VPN Paradox: A Critique of Selective Morality in Pakistan’s Digital Landscape

In today’s digital age, restrictions on communication seem like relics of the past. Yet, recent events in Pakistan highlight the ongoing struggle between access to technology and restrictions imposed under the guise of morality. The Council of Islamic Ideology recently declared VPN (Virtual Private Network) usage as "un-Islamic." Their stance is curious, especially when considering that VPNs are essential for people visiting countries like Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations, where platforms like WhatsApp are restricted.

Interestingly, many religious scholars who advocate these restrictions rely on VPNs themselves when traveling abroad. It’s a recurring pattern – technology is often labeled "un-Islamic" until it serves their needs. Decades ago, loudspeakers faced a similar fate. Today, these very devices amplify sermons across Pakistan. Videos and photography, once forbidden, are now embraced, with scholars actively promoting themselves on social media.

But VPNs are just the tip of the iceberg. The larger issue at play is the selective morality applied to issues that impact Pakistani citizens. Scholars, seemingly indifferent to societal injustices, focus on technological restrictions rather than addressing critical ethical issues. Take the example of forced disappearances, extrajudicial punishments, and corruption. These are actions that harm the dignity and rights of individuals – values Islam holds sacred. Yet, there’s silence from the very voices quick to condemn technology as un-Islamic.

Double Standards on Social Media

Social media is another contentious topic. It’s a tool for the younger generation to voice concerns, rally for change, and hold leaders accountable. However, there’s a growing attempt to stifle these voices. Scholars could have sided with the public, advocating for transparency and freedom of expression. Instead, they’ve aligned with authorities, possibly to serve political agendas.

Notably, prominent figures, including government officials, continue to tweet despite VPN restrictions. Are they exempt from the rules they impose on ordinary citizens? The hypocrisy is evident, yet there’s little accountability. Officials may publicly condemn VPNs, but behind closed doors, they use these very tools to manage their online presence and control narratives.

Injustice and Moral Responsibility

The Council of Islamic Ideology’s silence on issues like forced evictions, public harassment of women, and unjust arrests raises questions. Why are VPNs considered a threat while blatant injustices go unchecked? This selective approach to morality undermines the trust of the public. People question why issues affecting their everyday lives receive little attention from those claiming to uphold Islamic values.

In a recent development, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) admitted procedural flaws in its case against former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who, along with his wife, was imprisoned for over a year. Such admissions are significant, yet the mainstream media hardly covered it. The narrative in the media shifted instead to rumors about party conflicts, further diverting attention from the core issue – an admission of wrongful imprisonment by a state institution.

This is where morality should have a voice. Islamic principles advocate for justice, yet there is silence. Instead of addressing these matters, attention is diverted to restricting VPNs, while media outlets are instructed to downplay certain narratives. This strategy stifles opposition voices and manipulates public opinion, a form of "digital authoritarianism" that is creeping into Pakistan’s governance.

The Overseas Pakistani Dilemma

Another aspect of this control extends to overseas Pakistanis, a community of over a million people who often raise concerns about injustices in Pakistan. Their voices resonate globally, bringing international attention to domestic issues. But instead of valuing this perspective, authorities attempt to curb their influence. These overseas Pakistanis frequently face backlash and threats, yet they continue to stand for the rights of those within Pakistan.

A Call for Accountability

Amid these dynamics, some commentators call for introspection within Pakistan’s leadership. Columnist Javed Chaudhry suggested that political leaders facing public criticism should seek forgiveness from Allah. But there’s a deeper aspect – accountability to the people. Islam emphasizes "Huqooq-ul-Ibad," the rights of individuals, which cannot simply be forgiven without addressing wrongs done to others.

Those who have inflicted injustices – whether through wrongful detentions, assaults, or corruption – should seek forgiveness not just from Allah but also from the people they’ve wronged. Genuine repentance would require these leaders to acknowledge the pain inflicted on Pakistanis and make amends.

Conclusion: A Moment of Reflection

In Pakistan, selective morality seems to have become the norm. While VPNs and social media restrictions dominate public discourse, fundamental injustices remain unaddressed. The hypocrisy in governance and religious guidance fuels public frustration, particularly when the public sees technology bans as attempts to silence them.

To build a society aligned with true Islamic principles, there must be a commitment to justice, transparency, and equality. Until then, selective morality will continue to undermine Pakistan's moral fabric, and the voices of the oppressed will keep rising, demanding accountability from those in power. The irony is that in a nation with rich moral traditions, it’s not VPNs that need regulating but rather the conscience of those who wield influence.