It is not uncommon for the mainstream media and government officials to blame video games and other digital forms of entertainment for having negative effects on citizens. “Does video gaming cause violence” is a hotly debated topic all across the world, with people speaking both for and against the statement. In fact, some countries took it even a step further by banning certain video games or applications citing various reasons. The latest addition to the list this time is Pakistan, as their government bans PUBG Mobile, much to their citizens’ awe.
Pakistan’s ban on PUBG Mobile
On July 1, 2020, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority issued an official press release, notifying its citizens of the ban on PUBG Mobile. According to them, the reason for the sudden ban are the numerous complaints which they have received regarding the game, from “different segments of society”. PTA stated that thy received many complaints about PUBG Mobile, saying the game “is addictive and having a negative impact on the physical and psychological health of the children.”
The ban, however, is temporary for now. A hearing on July 9th, 2020, will decide the nature of the ban; whether it will be lifted or made permanent. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has also provided an email address for the citizens to send in their views regarding the ban.
The ban, evidently, was not met with exactly a warm welcome by the Pakistani youth. Pakistan’s ban on PUBG Mobile angered a lot of people. People voiced their opinion online on various social media platforms, through various posts and memes, criticizing the ban.
Is India the next country to ban PUBG Mobile?
While the nature of Pakistan’s ban on PUBG Mobile is yet to be determined, a lot of people are asking whether India is next in line to ban the game. This is due to the following key points. After a recent border clash between Indian and Chinese military troops, the Indian government has banned 59 Chinese apps, which include video games, namely Mobile Legends and Clash of Kings. PUBG Mobile is published by Tencent Games, which is a part of the Chinese multinational conglomerate holding company, Tencent Holdings Ltd. This can serve as a reason for the Indian government to ban PUBG Mobile too, according to a Reuters report. The game was previously banned across several cities in Gujarat, India, citing alleged violent behaviour among youth, due to playing the game.
While Pakistan’s take on this recent PUBG Mobile ban is yet to be confirmed, only time will tell whether the game will meet a similar fate in India.
That’s all we got for today as Pakistan bans PUBG Mobile temporarily. What is your opinion on this? Is India next on the line? Let us know in the comment section below.
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