The shutdown that began last Saturday resulted in users across the country being unable to share information.
After almost a week, the popular social media platform ‘X’ is still inaccessible to Pakistanis and the caretaker government has yet to disclose the reason behind the prolonged disruption, Geo News reported.
According to the report, the shutdown that began last Saturday resulted in users across the country being unable to share information.
Caretaker Minister for Information and Technology Dr Umar Saif was not immediately available for a comment and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has yet to issue a statement on the matter.
“User reports indicate possible problems at X (Twitter),” said website tracker Downdetector.com, Geo News reported.
According to the report, despite being the country among the top internet users globally, Pakistan struggles with internet availability, ranking low compared to its peers, while reportedly authorities intermittently disrupt access to social media platforms.
Ahead of the February 8 general elections, users were unable to access several social media sites, for which authorities concerned blamed an error. However, on the polling day, the internet was shut down to avoid terrorism, according to the caretaker government. Following the sought-after polls, there were repeated disruptions in accessing X.
Internet shutdowns directly contradict constitutionally guaranteed rights like freedom of information (Article 19-A), freedom of speech (Article 19), and freedom of association (Article 17). In its February 2018 ruling, the Islamabad High Court declared internet shutdowns against fundamental rights and the Constitution.
Digital rights activists had slammed the authorities’ move to disrupt the access to the social media platform and deplored the utter lack of transparency from the government.
Meanwhile, the Sindh High Court Thursday ordered the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to fully restore the services of social media platform X across the country and sought a detailed response from the authority and other parties at a later hearing, however, the PTA is yet to allow accessibility. (ANI)
The changes mean that users in the EU will be able to use Meta’s services without their information being shared between them…reports Asian Lite News
To comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union (EU), Meta on Monday announced that the users will be able to unlink their Instagram and Facebook accounts as well as other services.
The Mark Zuckerberg-run company said that it is offering more choices to people using Instagram and Facebook in the EU, European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland about how they can use its services and features, as the DMA enters into force in March.
The changes mean that users in the EU will be able to use Meta’s services without their information being shared between them.
People who have already chosen to connect their Instagram and Facebook accounts will be able to continue to connect their accounts so that their information will be used across their Instagram and Facebook accounts.
“They can also manage their Instagram and Facebook accounts separately so that their information is no longer used across accounts,” said Tim Lamb, Director, Competition and Regulatory, Meta.
People using Facebook Messenger can choose whether they wish to continue using Facebook Messenger with their Facebook account, or if they would prefer to create a stand-alone new Messenger account.
People who choose to create a new Messenger account without their Facebook information will be able to use Messenger’s core service offering such as private messaging and chat, voice and video calling, Lamb informed.
Those using Facebook Marketplace can choose between a Marketplace experience that uses their Facebook information or not.
“For people who choose to use their Facebook information for their Marketplace experience, the current Marketplace experience will remain. People who choose not to use their Facebook information for their Marketplace experience will still be able to browse listings and to buy and sell items,” the company informed.
Over the next few weeks, people will receive notifications that will inform them about their ability to choose whether they would like to share information between Meta services.
People who play games on Facebook can choose between a gaming experience that uses their Facebook information or an experience without their Facebook information.
“People in the EU, EEA and Switzerland also have the ability to use Instagram and Facebook for free with ads, or subscribe to stop seeing ads,” said the company.
If people subscribe to stop seeing ads, their information will not be used for ads. This choice rolled out in November last year.
The DMA Act seeks to promote contestability and fairness in digital markets. “We are committed to continue working hard to ensure that Meta’s products in the EU comply with the DMA and deliver value to people,” said the company.
In order to participate, respondents had to use at least one social media channel at least once a week. On average, the participants stated that they spent just over two hours a day on social media…reports Asian Lite News
The use of social media is associated with risks, especially for people with a highly materialistic mindset, as scrolling down content posted by others can increase stress and unhappiness in such users, say researchers.
At the same time, the social media platforms attract materialists anyway, as they are a perfect way to satisfy many materialistic needs, according to the study published in the journal Telematics and Informatics Reports.
The researchers headed by Dr Phillip Ozimek from the Faculty of Psychology at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, recruited 1,230 people for the study.
In order to participate, respondents had to use at least one social media channel at least once a week. On average, the participants stated that they spent just over two hours a day on social media.
The research team used six different questionnaires to determine the extent to which the participants had a materialistic attitude and tended to compare themselves with others, whether they used social media more actively or passively, whether they were addicted to social media, how stressed and how satisfied they were with their lives.
“The data showed that a stronger materialistic approach goes hand in hand with a tendency to compare oneself with others,” said Ozimek.
This comparison is very easy to make on social media, primarily through passive use — by looking at the content posted by other users.
Materialism and passive use were also linked to addictive use of social media.
“By this we mean, for example, that users are constantly thinking about the respective channels and fear that they are missing out on something if they are not online,” Ozimek added.
This, in turn, leads to symptoms of poorer mental health — stress.
The final link in the chain is reduced life satisfaction. “Social media is one of six stepping stones to unhappiness,” Ozimek noted.
It’s definitely a good idea to be aware of the amount of time you spend on social media and to reduce it, the authors noted.
Taking leverage of the digital age, the industry can invariably build trust among consumers by showcasing their commitment to sustainable and ethical practices…writes Swati Saraf
Riding the digital bandwagon, social media and e-commerce have become an inevitable outcome of robust internet penetration. Where their impact is being felt across industries; even the fashion industry is undergoing a paradigm shift under their influence. Social media and e-commerce together are starkly transforming the way the fashion industry functions. By opening up new avenues for making shopping accessible and convenient for customers, they play a crucial role in exhibiting the wide gamut of choices available to them.
Bringing about discernible modifications in the shopping patterns of consumers, e-commerce and social media can immensely contribute to the growth of the fashion industry. Gauging the wide gamut of benefits they have to offer, let’s understand how together they are redefining the industry.
Embracing sustainability Taking leverage of the digital age, the industry can invariably build trust among consumers by showcasing their commitment to sustainable and ethical practices. Considering that the audience these days is highly woke of the deteriorating state of the environment, they are very conscious of their purchasing choices. In the pursuit to support the cause, they incessantly opt for sustainable fashion and resonate with brands promoting the same. Hence, riding the popularity of social media, the industry can keep the audience well informed about their eco-friendly practices and win their loyalty over time.
Vouching for connected commerce
The confluence of social and digital platforms has revolutionized the Indian fashion industry. Social networking sites like Instagram and Facebook have emerged as powerful tools for fashion brands and designers to showcase their creations, engage with customers, and drive sales. This integration has enabled brands to reach a wider audience base, both domestically and internationally. In the process, it is enabling direct-to-consumer sales through seamless social media shopping experiences. This transformation has democratized the fashion industry, empowering emerging designers and local brands to gain visibility and compete on a global scale.
Omnichannel Retailing for endless choice
The evolution of omnichannel retailing is increasing the availability of choice among consumers. Traditionally, limited physical store space constrained retailers’ ability to showcase their entire inventory. However, with the advent of the omnichannel model, Indian retailers can now seamlessly bridge the gap between online and offline shopping experiences.This innovative approach grants customers access to an extensive array of products, even if they are not physically available in the store. This expanded product range empowers consumers with more choices, reducing the likelihood of out-of-stock situations. Additionally, it is spurring retailers to optimize their supply chains and inventory management systems, to ease shopping for customers.
Elevating shopping experience
Ever since the integration of technology into the industry, there has been a phenomenal change in consumer behavior. Gauging the rising preference for online shopping from the convenience of their home instead of scouting the stores physically, the industry is taking this as an opportunity to provide them with a seamless shopping experience. They are going the extra mile with the help of e-commerce and social media platforms to provide innovative shopping solutions to customers. Harnessing the benefits of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), etc. it is opening the gateway to virtual trail rooms, previously unimaginable by the audience. Moreover, the ability to provide personalized recommendations by taking into account past purchases and individual preferences, it is relentlessly working towards meeting customer satisfaction. Therefore, looking at the omnipresence of technology in recent years, digital platforms can immensely contribute to the fashion industry in staying abreast of the changing trends. By providing the means to amplify the visibility, it is also easing the entire shopping process for the customers while keeping them well-informed at every stage of development. Hence, by infusing loyalty among the customers, it allows the industry to come up with ingenious offerings to enhance the overall experience of the customers.
India is mulling regulation to tame the spread of deepfakes and other user harm that Artificial Intelligence (AI) can bring along…reports Asian Lite News
The IT Ministry will issue advisories to social media intermediaries in the next two days on ensuring 100 per cent compliance on tackling deepfakes and spread of misinformation on their respective platforms, Minister of State for Electronics and IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar said on Tuesday.
During the second ‘Digital India Dialogues’ meeting on misinformation and deepfakes with social media intermediaries, the minister reviewed the progress made since the meeting on November 24, when the Centre had given a seven-day deadline to platforms to tweak their policies as per Indian regulations in order to address the spread of deepfakes.
“Many platforms are responding to the decisions taken last month and advisories on ensuring 100 per cent compliance will be issued in the next two days,” said the minister.
“A new amended #ITRules to further ensure compliance of platforms, and safety and trust of #DigitalNagriks is actively under consideration,” Chandrasekhar added.
Deepfakes could be subject to action under the current IT Rules, particularly Rule 3(1)(b), which mandates the removal of 12 types of content within 24 hours of receiving user complaints.
The government will also take action of 100 per cent of such violations under the IT Rules in the future.
“The intermediaries are further mandated to remove such content within 24 hours upon receiving a report from either a user or government authority. Failure to comply with this requirement invokes Rule 7, which empowers aggrieved individuals to take platforms to court under the provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC),” the minister said.
“For those who find themselves impacted by deepfakes, I strongly encourage you to file First Information Reports (FIRs) at your nearest police station,” said Chandrasekhar, adding that the IT Ministry will help aggrieved users in filing FIRs in relation to deepfakes.
India is mulling regulation to tame the spread of deepfakes and other user harm that Artificial Intelligence (AI) can bring along.
The Delhi High Court on Monday sought Central government’s response in a PIL regarding the absence of regulations for AI and deepfake technologies in the country.
As the Indian government takes a tough stand on AI-generated fake content, especially deepfakes, Google said late last month the company’s collaboration with the Indian government for a multi-stakeholder discussion aligns with its commitment to addressing this challenge together and ensures a responsible approach to AI.
Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan were fine with each other and worked in Rakesh Roshan’s ‘Karan Arjun’ together, a hit film by all counts. Both had a common problem with Roshan, though, and jointly decided to never work with him again…writes Vinod Mirani
Looks like there are attempts by vested interests to bring the fans wars over stars on to the streets.
One knows the kind of groups that get into prolonged arguments on X for the star they favour, or are appointed by, or paid occasionally. They also abuse and run down other stars. All they need to do is toe the line their star master has assigned to them.
Okay, so you have been given a task to propagate a star and be more vehement when his film is due, and you are doing your job. Because you believe in your star, or are a part of his promotion team, or just because you have been paid for the job. Just like some so-called critics and influencers are.
But why extend your brief and get into a war of words, mostly foul words, with the lot doing the same thing? You are doing it for one star and they are doing it for another star.
It has come to a phase when no social media user is convinced by these exchanges or war of words, nor do they believe what certain critics and influencers have to say about a film. Also, throwing box office figures at the netizens on social media has become the norm. Not that they care. People either like a film or don’t like it.
As if the fan exchanges on social media were not bad enough, last week someone on X tried to take the social media action out on the streets.
This X ID wanted to go to Mumbai’s Galaxy Gaiety cinema complex in Bandra and tear up the posters of Yash Raj Films’ forthcoming ‘Tiger3’! Why? The film also features Shah Rukh Khan in a special role.
His contention was that the poster should feature Shah Rukh Khan and not Salman Khan. His stand was that Salman Khan’s films were failing in the recent past and Shah Rukh had given two mega hits, ‘Pathaan’ and ‘Jawan’, and if ‘Tiger 3’ succeeded, it will be only because of Shah Rukh Khan.
He announced that he was going to the cinema complex to tear up the posters and invited others to join him, and he challenged those who wanted to stop him.
Galaxy Gaiety complex has its loyal audience who flock to the cinemas every Friday, whichever the film. And, though Salman, Shah Rukh and and Sanjay Dutt are all the local residents of Bandra, traditionally, the audience at this complex consists mostly of Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt fans. All the whistles and catcalls are reserved for their films.
Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan were fine with each other and worked in Rakesh Roshan’s ‘Karan Arjun’ together, a hit film by all counts. Both had a common problem with Roshan, though, and jointly decided to never work with him again.
Their resolve did not last long since Shah Rukh Khan went ahead and worked for Roshan again in ‘Koyla’! This is said to have soured his relationship with Salman.
Tables turn overnight when it comes to stardom.
There were attempts at a rapprochement when Salman started giving hits in a row and Shah Rukh could not. When, finally, it is happening with ‘Tiger 3’, why create bad air? Tiger is a Salman Khan franchise, though the studio may brand it as being part of a Spy Universe, along with ‘Pathaan’ and ‘Jawan’.
Yash Raj Films is in the business of making films and if they started the campaign with a Salman Khan poster, it probably made more business sense to them.
So, what was this lad getting out of inciting violent reactions through X? Who would be foolish enough to get into a street fight either because you are a star’s diehard fan, or were paid to further his cause!
It is called being more loyal than the king in English, but the Hindi phrase would suit him better: Kutta maalik se jyada wafadar (the dog is more loyal than his master)!
Tamil Body Issues Red Card to Four Stars
The South Indian film trade bodies and the state authorities have a big hand in regulating the local film industry. They do not run shy even if disciplinary action needs to be taken against the stars if their stardom goes to their heads.
Filmmaking is a high-stake enterprise today. Innovations such as digital cameras may have made the execution easier and are providing wings to a maker’s imagination, but they also greatly add to the cost of production.
In the South, it matters that all wings of the trade, notably the producer, distributor and exhibitor, survives.
The stars are the one breed that makes money without any financial risk and stand to make money even if others lose. So, the stars have to be answerable and the trade body makes sure they fall in line.
Remember the 2014 film ‘Lingaa’? It was a Rajanikanth film and carried a heavy price tag. The trade considers a Rajanikanth film as a sure-shot guarantee to hit bull’s eye.
But ‘Lingaa’ failed and caused huge losses to its distributors. Like all Rajanikanth films, this film was also hyped big-time resulting in the distributors paying more for their respective regions.
The distributors suffered huge losses and demanded a refund. They threatened to go on strike in front of Rajanikanth’s house.
It was then that the Tamil Film Producers’ Council (TFPC) stepped in. One must say that the Council handled the situation tactfully.
The distributors and exhibitors claimed a loss of Rs 33 crore. RajInikanth and the film’s producer together agreed to pay 30 per cent of the claimed loss, finally settling for a Rs 12.5 crore reimbursement.
The study indicates that the success of the deviant social media influencers lies in exploiting certain consumer characteristics that make them susceptible to their charms…reports Asian Lite News
Counterfeiting has become a global economic crime with far-reaching consequences, and a new study by the University of Portsmouth reveals how social media influencers are facilitating this illicit trade.
This study published in the Deviant Behaviour Journal, marks the first estimate of its kind and highlights the significant impact these influencers have on counterfeit demand. Researchers found that counterfeiters are leveraging the popularity and trust of social media influencers to promote their illegal wares, making it easier than ever for consumers to find and purchase counterfeit products.
The research, based on UK surveys of 2000 people, estimates 22 per cent of consumers aged 16-60 who are active on social media have purchased counterfeit goods endorsed by influencers.
Counterfeit goods pose a massive global threat, with an annual value of up to $509 billion, comprising 2.5 per cent of global merchandise trade. This illegal trade results in significant economic losses for legitimate businesses through violated intellectual property rights and a surge in counterfeit factories with exploitative working conditions. It also fuels criminal enterprises, compromises national security and supports terrorist groups. There are also thousands of deaths each year from counterfeit pharmaceuticals and risks posed by fake cosmetics, substandard food, toys, electrical goods and batteries. Addressing this complicated issue requires a deeper understanding of the forces driving the demand – which includes the use of social media influencers.
The study indicates that the success of the deviant social media influencers lies in exploiting certain consumer characteristics that make them susceptible to their charms. Key factors include high susceptibility to the influence of trusted digital others, low risk awareness, high risk appetite and a tendency to rationalise morally questionable purchases.
Professor Mark Button, Director of the Centre for Cybercrime and Economic Crime at the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, University of Portsmouth, said: “Social commerce is the new frontier for marketing, and the social media influencers are the new royalty. Consumers in this marketplace often rely on remote recommendations by third parties, and these influencers have increasingly replaced the customers’ own evaluations of purchasing risk.”
The research also suggests that young consumers are most likely to fall prey to the persuasive tactics of these influencers. The findings show that young adults aged 16-33 years are three times as likely to purchase endorsed counterfeits as older consumers aged 34-60 years. Males account for 70 per cent of all buyers, with their risk tolerance and susceptibility to influencers contributing to this high prevalence.
Dr David Shepherd, School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Portsmouth, said, “Counterfeit products injure and kill hundreds of thousands of people across the world. The working conditions in the counterfeit factories are unsafe with subsistence level wages. Don’t be fooled by social media influencers. We strongly urge everyone to check the products they endorse. Why are they promoting the products? Are they too cheap to be true? Where do they come from? Do you really want to be involved in an exploitative and deadly trade?”
While this research focused on the UK, its implications are far-reaching, considering the global nature of the counterfeit market and the interconnectedness of social media platforms. As counterfeiters find new ways to exploit digital marketing techniques, there is an urgent need for industry players and authorities to collaborate and combat this growing threat.
The study also highlights the role of social media platforms and legitimate brands in either fostering or discouraging the counterfeit trade. Researchers call for a more robust approach in policing the content and advertisements that feature on social media platforms, ensuring legitimate brands do not inadvertently contribute to the counterfeit market.
The fight against counterfeit goods is a multi-faceted challenge, requiring a systemic approach involving consumer education, stronger regulations, and more stringent enforcement efforts. By addressing the root causes of consumer susceptibility and targeting deviant influencer marketing tactics, stakeholders can work together to curb the spread of counterfeit products and protect consumers from economic, social and personal harm.
Professor Button says, “This study raises serious concerns about the impact of deviant influencer marketing on consumer behaviour, particularly among vulnerable demographics. It is crucial for brands, regulators and law enforcement agencies to take action and disrupt the activities of these illicit influencers and the networks that support them”.
The number of social network users is approaching the number that uses the Internet at 5.19 billion, or 64.5 per cent of the world population…reports Asian Lite News
More than 60 per cent of the world’s population, or nearly five billion people, are active on social media, a new study has shown.
According to digital advisory firm Kepios, this figure represents an increase of 3.7 per cent compared to the previous year.
The number of social network users is approaching the number that uses the Internet at 5.19 billion, or 64.5 per cent of the world population.
Moreover, the report said that social media usage varies widely by region. In East and Central Africa, only one person out of 11 uses social media, while in India, only one out of three does.
The amount of time spent on social media has also increased, rising by two minutes per day to two hours and 26 minutes. Brazilians spend an average of three hours and 49 minutes per day on social media while the Japanese spend less than an hour.
The average social media user is on seven platforms. With WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, Meta has three favourite apps. WeChat, TikTok, and its local version Douyin are the three most popular apps in China. The top social media platforms are completed by Twitter, Messenger, and Telegram, according to the report.
Meanwhile, the US Precise Advertiser Report: Kids (PARK) showed that about 9 out of 10 kids under 12 in the US access content on YouTube versus 4 in 10 for TikTok, despite the incredible popularity of TikTok.
When queried about their most recent content consumption, 86 per cent cited YouTube, followed by 63 per cent who said video on demand, 50 per cent who said gaming and 38 per cent who said TikTok. Half of the kids who watch YouTube are aware of YouTube Shorts, with a fifth having seen YouTube Shorts Ads while watching.
Threads launched in 2023, the latest app that’s making waves in the digital media domain, is all about sparking engaging conversations. With over 5 million users and counting, it has surpassed growth records and established itself as a go-to platform…reports Asian Lite News
If you haven’t heard about threads, you’re surely living under the rocks! Threads has taken the social media world by storm, captivating users with its unique communication and media sharing approach. It’s not alone in its success, as other social media and entertainment apps have also gained significant traction among users worldwide. These apps, with their captivating features and user-friendly interfaces, have attracted a diverse user base from different countries and cultures. What sets them apart is their cool interfaces and seamless navigation, making exploration and interaction effortless. With innovative features that bring a fresh perspective to social media and entertainment, these apps have gained immense popularity and engagement, and so revolutionised the digital space. They have experienced a massive surge in global traffic, building a loyal user base.
Today, let us take a look at some influential apps that have redefined the digital and entertainment landscape and ‘clicked’ with consumers with their appealing interfaces, imaginative and groundbreaking innovations, and widespread popularity.
Threads – Igniting Conversations:
Threads launched in 2023, the latest app that’s making waves in the digital media domain, is all about sparking engaging conversations. With over 5 million users and counting, it has surpassed growth records and established itself as a go-to platform. Threads takes a fresh approach by focusing on text-based conversations rather than visual content. It combines the best features of Instagram and Twitter, allowing users to share text updates, join public discussions, and even reply and re-share posts. It’s the perfect space for meaningful interactions and lively debates.
Pocket FM – Pioneering Audio Entertainment:
Pocket FM, launched in 2018, has revolutionized the audio entertainment industry with its vast content library of over 100,000 hours of audio series spanning across genres like romance, fantasy, sci-fi, horror, thriller, and drama. By providing a captivating and immersive listening experience, Pocket FM has garnered a dedicated global following, expanding its presence in key markets such as the United States of America and India. With a user-centric design, personalized recommendations, and a commitment to showcase cultural and language diversity, the platform continues to disrupt traditional media consumption habits and foster a vibrant community of audio enthusiasts, solidifying its position as a leader in the audio entertainment category.x
Snapchat – Instant Communication Redefined:
Snapchat that came to life in 2011 has transformed the way we communicate online with its emphasis on instant sharing and privacy. Beyond its roots as a photo-sharing app, Snapchat now offers videos, live video chatting, messaging, and even short-form content from major publishers. Its unique features, such as AR-based lenses and disappearing messages, add an element of creativity and spontaneity. Whether you’re capturing a hilarious moment or having a quick chat with friends, Snapchat’s quick and creative communication options make it a popular choice for users worldwide.
Netflix – The Streaming Giant:
Netflix that was founded in 1997, needs no introduction as the streaming giant that has revolutionized our video entertainment consumption. With its vast library of original series, films, and documentaries, it’s the ultimate destination for binge-watching enthusiasts. From the captivating worlds of The Witcher to the nostalgic charm of Stranger Things, Netflix’s hit originals dominate conversations and spark water cooler discussions. With a user-friendly interface, solid recommendations, and an ever-growing lineup of diverse content, Netflix continues to be the go-to platform for streaming enthusiasts.
Bumble – Empowering Connections:
Bumble (2014) is not just another dating app; it’s a platform that empowers women in the world of online dating. By allowing women to make the first move, Bumble gives them control over their connections and reduces unwanted messages. With support for diverse orientations and gender identifications, Bumble welcomes users from all walks of life. Its unique approach has gained popularity and turned it into a trusted platform for meaningful connections. When it comes to empowering and inclusive dating experiences, Bumble stands out from the crowd.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that the digital media domain will continue to evolve, with new apps and platforms emerging to capture the attention of consumers. The success of these apps is a testament to the ever-changing landscape of social media and entertainment, and how they have become an integral part of our daily lives. So, keep exploring, connecting, and experiencing the world through these new age apps that have truly ‘clicked’ with consumers.
The US has been debating over the past few years where to draw the line between curbing the online propagation of potentially dangerous information and the freedom of speech….reports Asian Lite News
President Joe Biden’s administration is prohibited from contacting social media companies concerning content moderation by a federal judge in the United States, reported Al Jazeera.
Judge Terry Doughty ordered the injunction in a court filing on Tuesday in response to a complaint filed by Republican Attorneys General in Louisiana and Missouri. They claim that in trying to push social media platforms to rectify inaccurate content, the government went too far. According to Doughty, the government’s efforts to curtail untrue statements about the COVID-19 pandemic and the election “arguably involve the most massive attack against free speech in United States history.”
Doughty, a federal judge appointed by former president Donald Trump, had earlier blocked the need that instructors to receive COVID-19 immunisation in January 2022, as per a report of Al Jazeera.
Additionally, he prohibited healthcare workers from being required to receive a vaccination; however, the US Supreme Court mainly overturned this decision.
His Tuesday filing makes multiple allusions to right-wing talking points. Even still, Republicans who contend that Biden, a Democrat, used the COVID-19 pandemic to censor speech in the name of battling “misinformation,” have celebrated Tuesday’s injunction as a triumph.
Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri, a Republican, referred to the judgement as “a huge win for the First Amendment and a blow to censorship.” He accused the Biden administration of creating “a vast censorship enterprise” and colluding with media firms, according to Al Jazeera.
The US has been debating over the past few years where to draw the line between curbing the online propagation of potentially dangerous information and the freedom of speech.
Even still, Republicans who contend that Biden, a Democrat, used the COVID-19 pandemic to censor speech in the name of battling “misinformation,” have celebrated Tuesday’s injunction as a triumph.
Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri, a Republican, referred to the judgement as “a huge win for the First Amendment and a blow to censorship.” Creating “a vast censorship enterprise” and “colluding” with media companies, he claimed, were actions taken by the Biden administration.
The US has been debating over the past few years where to draw the line between curbing the online propagation of potentially dangerous information and the freedom of speech.
Efforts to restrict, for example, false statements about the 2020 election have sparked complaints about conservative censorship on social media.
In Tuesday’s order, filed with the US District Court for the Western District of Louisiana, Judge Doughty made some exceptions to his injunction: The government could, for example, communicate with social media companies on issues of national security and criminal activity, Al Jazeera reported. (ANI)
