Islamic Council has reversed its stance on the controversial fatwa regarding VPN usage
Chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII), Allama Raghib Naeemi, clarified his earlier statement regarding Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), explaining that the controversy stemmed from a typographical error. He stated that VPNs were not declared un-Islamic or ‘haram’.
This clarification followed a recent CII statement that was reportedly interpreted as deeming the use of VPNs un-Islamic. Consequently, the Ministry of Interior instructed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to block unregistered VPNs, leading to the blocking of several VPN services.
During a press conference in Islamabad on Wednesday, Allama Raghib Naeemi addressed the issue, asserting, “Social media is a powerful tool for sharing thoughts and opinions. However, its misuse for blasphemy, sectarianism, or extremist activities is unacceptable.”
He continued, “If these rules are violated, then the use of social media could indeed become un-Islamic.” The CII chairman clarified that no member of the council had declared VPNs un-Islamic or impermissible.
“The misunderstanding arose from a typographical error in our issued statement. The omission of the word ‘not’ led to this confusion,” he explained. Allama Naeemi also emphasized the importance of using social media responsibly, urging the public to avoid actions that promote hatred, terrorism, or religious intolerance.
VPN Fatwa
