Local youth in Karikot Bazaar, South Waziristan, staged a protest against the prolonged suspension of mobile internet services and DSL connections in the area.
The demonstration was also joined by political and social leaders, who strongly criticized the government's inaction.
Protesters condemned the continued lack of internet access, calling it a grave injustice in this digital age. “Denying mobile internet services to a population of hundreds of thousands is an act of oppression and a violation of constitutional rights,” one speaker said.
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They added that the internet blackout has severely disrupted business activity, education, and communication with travelers. “Millions have been pushed into digital darkness, and we will not accept this under any circumstances.”
The demonstrators demanded the immediate restoration of the Shaheed Mor mobile tower, which has been non-functional since last month after being set on fire by unknown individuals. They also called for the installation of new towers in Ghwa Khwa, Shen, Warsak, and other surrounding areas. Additionally, they urged authorities to ensure the provision of DSL connections in Karikot and its neighboring localities.
The youth of Karikot warned that if their demands are not met promptly, they will launch a sit-in protest in front of the Scouts Camp after finalizing their future strategy.
It is worth noting that MNA Zubair Wazir has already sent a formal letter to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) regarding the mobile internet issue, particularly the Karikot tower outage. The mobile tower company has reportedly assured that the Shaheed Mor tower will be restored, but service remains suspended to date.
