Allama Raghib Naeemi, Chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII), has clarified his previous statement regarding Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), attributing the recent controversy to a typographical error. He emphasized that VPNs were not declared un-Islamic or ‘haram’ by the council.
The clarification follows a recent CII statement that allegedly labeled the use of VPNs as un-Islamic, leading the Ministry of Interior to instruct the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to block unregistered VPNs. In response, PTA reportedly blocked several VPN services.
Addressing the issue at a press conference in Islamabad on Wednesday, Allama Raghib Naeemi stated, “Social media is a powerful tool for sharing thoughts and opinions. However, its misuse for blasphemy, sectarianism, or extremist activities is unacceptable.” He further clarified that the council did not declare VPNs un-Islamic or impermissible.
“The misunderstanding arose due to a typographical error in our issued statement. The omission of the word ‘not’ led to confusion,” he explained. Allama Naeemi also emphasized the importance of responsible social media use, urging the public to avoid activities that promote hatred, terrorism, or religious intolerance.
