State Bank Wants to Ban Bigo Live and Similar "Immoral" Apps

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has reportedly requested the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to ban Bigo Live and other similar apps that it considers "immoral" and "indecent". The SBP has cited concerns over the impact of these apps on the country's youth and their negative influence on society.

Bigo Live is a popular live streaming app that allows users to broadcast themselves live to a global audience. It has millions of users in Pakistan, where it has become a popular platform for entertainment and socializing.

The SBP's request to ban Bigo Live and other similar apps comes as part of a broader government crackdown on online content that is deemed to be "immoral" or "anti-Islamic". The government has previously blocked several websites and apps, including popular social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, over concerns of spreading "blasphemous" content.

The move to ban Bigo Live and similar apps has sparked controversy, with many users and activists criticizing the government's efforts to curb online freedom of expression. They argue that the government is using moral policing as a pretext to suppress dissent and curtail the right to free speech.

Furthermore, critics argue that banning these apps could have negative economic consequences, as many people in Pakistan rely on them for their livelihoods. Many content creators, especially those in the entertainment industry, use these apps as a platform to showcase their talents and earn money.

The ban on Bigo Live and similar apps could also impact Pakistan's technology industry, which has been growing rapidly in recent years. Many start-ups and entrepreneurs have emerged in the country's digital economy, and a ban on these apps could discourage investment and innovation in this sector.

However, supporters of the ban argue that these apps are a threat to traditional values and morality and should be banned to protect the youth and society at large. They cite examples of cases where these apps have been used to spread pornographic content and engage in cyberbullying and harassment.

In response to the SBP's request, the PTA has reportedly formed a committee to investigate the matter and make recommendations to the government. It remains to be seen whether the ban on Bigo Live and similar apps will be implemented and what impact it will have on Pakistan's digital economy and online freedom of expression.

In conclusion, the SBP's request to ban Bigo Live and similar apps in Pakistan highlights the ongoing debate over online freedom of expression and morality. While supporters of the ban argue that these apps are a threat to traditional values and morality, critics argue that such measures could have negative economic and social consequences. As Pakistan's digital economy continues to grow, it is essential for policymakers to strike a balance between protecting traditional values and promoting innovation and economic growth.