For sure, Feb 8 was not the first time the country faced suspension of internet and mobile phone services. The disruption was but an extension of a negative strategy that always ends up hindering economic activities. Such a shutdown on election day led to lack of authentic information, which, in turn, facilitated anyone busy in floating rumours and disinformation. In late 2023, similar internet disruptions had accounted for a loss of more than a billion rupees in merely 24 hours. With an increasing number of economic problems, coupled with an unmeasurable decrease in the value of the currency, it is crucial to avoid any step that hinders the internet-based economy. Pakistani freelancers bring in precious foreign exchange into the country, and they deserve a better deal.
SHAHZADA QASIM
GUJRAT
