Islamabad, (Newsman): Dr. Muhammad Raghib Hussain Naeemi, Chairman of Pakistan’s Council of Islamic Ideology (CII), clarified the council’s recent declaration on Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), which had sparked controversy.
Speaking to the media, Dr. Naeemi explained that a typographical error in the CII’s press release—missing the word “no”—led to misinterpretations, with some mistakenly believing the council had condemned VPNs as “un-Islamic.”
He stressed that VPNs, like any technology, are not inherently un-Islamic but must be used responsibly and in accordance with Islamic principles.
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The controversy stemmed from a previous statement in which Dr. Naeemi had noted that using VPNs to access immoral or illegal content, such as blasphemous material or extremist propaganda, violates Islamic teachings. However, he clarified that the council does not oppose VPNs as a technology, but rather their misuse.
Dr. Naeemi emphasized that technologies like VPNs and social media should serve positive purposes, such as promoting Islamic values and national security.
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He also noted that while the government has a role in protecting the public from harmful content, a balanced approach should be taken rather than imposing blanket bans.
He mentioned that the council would consult experts to develop guidelines for the responsible use of such technologies, ensuring they advance knowledge and protect society.
