The article discusses the case of Rubina, a woman from Karachi, Pakistan, who won a court case allowing her to obtain a Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) based on her mother's citizenship record, challenging the previous requirement of presenting a father's ID. The CNIC is crucial for accessing various government services and benefits in Pakistan. The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) is working to include those previously excluded from the system. However, issues such as privacy concerns and data breaches have been raised, with vulnerable groups at risk. The government is said to be introducing a data privacy policy soon. The article highlights the broader implications for marginalized groups in Pakistan and the importance of inclusive digital ID systems.

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) ruled that telecom network shutdowns in Pakistan are illegal, rejecting the state's security rationale. Pakistan has frequently experienced network suspensions during public events, often unannounced, which the PTA has implemented. Advocate Umer Gillani, with the support of four citizens, filed a public interest petition against this practice. The report 'Security V. Access: The Impact of Mobile Network Shutdowns in Pakistan' played a crucial role in the case. The verdict is seen as a global precedent against arbitrary network disruptions, which have left Pakistani citizens without access to essential services. The judgment did not address the telecom companies' responsibilities to consumers, despite their role in government-led human rights infringements. The article discusses the implications of the verdict and the responsibilities of telecom companies under international human rights standards.

The article discusses Pakistan's poor human rights record, with a focus on civil liberties and freedom of expression, particularly online. It highlights upcoming reviews by the UN Human Rights Committee and the UN Human Rights Council. The article mentions the abduction of bloggers and activists, the rise in blasphemy cases, and the misuse of laws like the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 to suppress dissent. It also touches on the government's crackdown on social media criticism, especially against the military, and the chilling effect on free speech ahead of the general elections. The writer, a journalist and digital rights researcher, criticizes the government's approach and calls for a more democratic handling of freedom of expression.

The article discusses the climate of fear and self-censorship in Pakistan due to the misuse of blasphemy laws and the rise of vigilantism. The author expresses concern over the shrinking space for critical and dissenting speech, citing personal experiences and recent incidents where individuals were targeted for their views. The article references the Rabat Plan of Action, a UN initiative that defines hate speech and was co-sponsored by Pakistan, yet remains unimplemented in the country. The author criticizes the Pakistani courts for their failure to deliver timely justice and highlights the trend of using blasphemy accusations to suppress progressive voices on social media. The writer, a journalist and digital rights researcher, calls for the repeal of blasphemy laws in line with global standards and the protection of freedom of speech.