ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir on Thursday issued a stern warning about the dangers of social media, stating that it has become a breeding ground for “anarchy.” The army chief made these remarks during an Ulema-o-Mashaikh Conference in Islamabad, highlighting the escalating impact of digital platforms on societal unrest.
Addressing the conference, General Munir said, “Anarchy is being spread through social media.” He emphasised the army’s resolve to protect the nation, stating, “If anyone attempts to create chaos in Pakistan, by God, we will stand against them. No power in the world can harm Pakistan because this country is built to last.”
Call for Unity and Tolerance
In his speech, General Munir urged religious scholars and clerics to promote unity and tolerance within society. He implored them to steer the nation away from extremism and discrimination, advocating for a return to moderation. “Bring back moderation in society and reject corruption in the world,” he urged, underlining the importance of harmony in national progress.
“Digital Terrorism” a Growing Concern
The COAS’s comments come on the heels of a statement by ISPR Director General Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry earlier in the week, where he criticised the lack of effective measures against “digital terrorism.” Chaudhry pointed out that the law had not been sufficiently enforced to curb the spread of fake news and propaganda online, which has exacerbated public confusion.
“It’s the country’s law that must control and curb digital terrorism,” Chaudhry remarked. “Unfortunately, lies, propaganda — especially on social media — fake news, and doctored images continue to spread, creating confusion in the public’s mind.”
In response to the increasing criticism on social media, the military had, in May, branded such activities as “digital terrorism,” committing to a decisive stand against anti-military campaigns that have proliferated on online platforms. This was underscored at the 83rd Formation Commanders Conference, signaling a more rigid stance against online dissent.
Crackdown on Anti-Military Campaigns
Over recent years, the military has been confronted with a surge in social media campaigns critical of its role, reflecting deeper tensions within Pakistan’s political landscape. The government’s reaction, often in collaboration with the military, has been to clamp down on these dissenting voices, leading to arrests and legal action against journalists and social media users accused of spreading “negative propaganda.”
Additionally, the authorities have imposed internet restrictions and temporarily banned major social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter). The military’s actions followed a post by PTI founder Imran Khan on his X account, urging followers to study the Hamoodur Rehman Commission Report on the events that led to the separation of East Pakistan.
The term “digital terrorism” resurfaced during the 265th Corps Commanders’ Conference on July 5, where attendees warned that “politically motivated digital terrorism” was being orchestrated by conspirators with foreign backing, aimed at spreading despondency and discord among the public through blatant lies and propaganda.
“Khawarij Are a Great Fitna”
General Munir also touched on other critical issues, particularly terrorism. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Pakhtun community in the fight against terrorism, reaffirming the nation’s solidarity with them.
“The Khawarij are a great fitna,” he declared, referring to the extremist groups that have destabilized the region. He accused criminal and smuggling mafias of supporting terrorism and reiterated that Islam does not condone compulsion in religion.
The army chief also mentioned Pakistan’s long standing hospitality towards Afghan refugees, having hosted millions over the past four decades. “We are advising them not to oppose their neighboring brother Islamic country and long-time friend for the sake of the Khawarij fitna,” he said, alluding to Pakistan’s demands from the Afghan Taliban.
On the subject of protests, General Munir urged peaceful demonstrations, stating, “If you want to protest, do it, but remain peaceful.”
Concluding his address, General Munir referred to the Kashmir dispute as an “incomplete agenda” between Pakistan and India and expressed sorrow over Israeli actions in Gaza. “The heart sheds tears witnessing the atrocities in Palestine and Gaza,” he lamented.
