Pakistan Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan has ordered the Cyber Crime Wing of the Federal Investigation Authority (FIA) to take immediate action against those dishonouring the Pakistan Army on social media.
"Ridiculing the army or its officers under the garb of freedom of expression is unacceptable," the Express Tribune quoted Khan as saying as he stated that the Constitution, while providing guarantee of freedom of expression, makes it clear that security and defence matters and relevant organisation would not be subjected to criticism and no citizen would indulge in any such activity that negatively impacts the prestige, repute and respect of the armed forces.
He said targeting a disciplined and reputed organisation of the country was a serious offence and strict action should be taken against those who, intentionally or unintentionally, were committing such an offence.
According to the report, the crackdown orders were issued after many social media users criticised the military establishment in its recent standoff with the civilian government over the Dawn Leak issue.