Pakistan blocks online game PUBG over 'negative' impact on children

Tariq Butt, Correspondent / Agence France-Presse

In view of complaints received from different segments of society, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has decided to temporarily suspend the PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) game.

The PTA had received numerous complaints against PUBG wherein it was stated that the game is addictive, wastage of time and poses serious negative impact on physical and psychological health of the children. The PTA said it had suspended Internet access to the game pending a high court hearing on July 9.

According to recent media reports, cases of suicide attributed to PUBG game have also been reported.

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has also directed PTA to look into the issue and decide the matter after hearing the complainants. In this regard, a hearing is being conducted on July 9, 2020.

The PTA also decided to solicit views of the public with reference to the said online game. In this regard, the general public was encouraged to provide feedback through consultation.

The regulator continues to act against objectionable sites including those which are blasphemous. Objections have been frequently raised by different people about its action but the PTA has been going ahead with its activity unhindered.

Pakistan's Dawn newspaper last month reported that police in Lahore had recommended a ban after a teenaged player killed himself.

The newspaper said police believe the 16-year-old boy committed suicide after he failed to accomplish a mission.

Often likened to the blockbuster book and film series "The Hunger Games," PUBG pits marooned characters against each another in a virtual fight to the death, and has become one of the world's most popular mobile games.

Pakistan's move follows similar bans in Jordan, Iraq, Nepal, the Indian state of Gujarat and the Indonesian province of Aceh.