Pakistani showbiz stars call out internet shutdown
Imran Khan arrest: Anoushey Ashraf, Maya Ali, Hira Tareen and more have taken stand against internet shutdown in the country
Following the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan, Pakistani authorities have blocked the internet and social media platforms as a knee-jerk reaction to the law and order situation.
Many personalities from the showbiz industry raised their voices against the unjustifiable restrictions and defended freedom of expression.
Celebrities condemned the acts of vandalism and violence, but also called for an immediate end to the internet shutdown.
Anoushey Ashraf:
Anoushey Ashraf commented on the current situation of the country and felt proud of her fraternity for expressing the love for their country.
The host wrote: “This is an opportunity for change. We’ve been seeing this deterioration for far too long. Good or bad, Imran Khan has paved the path for change.”
Maya Ali:
Maya Ali penned: "I urge all the people out there to please not cause harm to others or yourself. Don't hurt anyone who is out to support our captain [Imran Khan] in any capacity.”
The Mann Mayal actress added: “Those who are destroying things and wreaking havoc: they're not from us, and we know for sure who these people are.”
Hira Tareen:
Hira Tareen wrote a long note on her Instagram stories regarding the current situation in the country and wrote: "I do believe peaceful protesting is our basic and fundamental right."
The Khaas actress further wrote: "The But to vandalize and destroy property that serves the citizens and comes from their own tax money or taking part in violence and destruction generally in any form is further causing harm to the progress and prosperity of the nation. It’s contributing to the uncertainty and an unsettling feeling.”
Abdul Hannan:
Abdul Hanna wrote: “In light of recent events, [Imran Khan's] release has been postponed. Heart bleeds for the country.”
Adnan Malik:
Adnan Malik wrote in his Instagram stories: “Blocked cell phone internet, blocked Twitter and YouTube, tv media not covering the protests, Section 144 on the streets. Peaceful protestors arrested and harassed. Army called in to manage.”