The chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology, Dr Raghib Naeemi, emphasized the importance of using social media responsibly, highlighting its potential for both positive and negative impacts.

During a press conference held after a council meeting on Wednesday, Dr Naeemi shared that the council had reviewed and endorsed previous recommendations concerning social media use, with all members agreeing on a declaration aimed at promoting ethical and constructive engagement online.

“Social media has both positive and negative aspects. It should be utilized for national security, promoting Islamic teachings, and other legitimate purposes,” he stated. Dr Naeemi firmly denounced the misuse of social platforms for insulting religion, spreading sectarianism, or encouraging extremism.

He clarified that while Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) or social media platforms are not inherently un-Islamic, they must be used appropriately. “Only the use of a registered VPN can be considered correct in Islam,” he noted.

He further said that under Article 19 of the Constitution, every person has the right to access information. He stressed that while there's no denying modern media, their positive use is necessary. “Banning modern media is not a solution to the problems, but there should be suitable alternatives,” Naeemi stated.

The council also decided to consult with technical experts. Responding to a journalist’s query on whether the prime minister’s use of VPNs is un-Islamic, Dr Naeemi reiterated that the government has assigned a deadline of November 30 to register VPNs.

"After the deadline, everyone should use registered VPNs," the CII head said.

Last week, the CII emphasized the necessity of blocking access to immoral and blasphemous content on the internet, declaring the use of VPNs "un-Islamic" when used for unlawful purposes.

CII Chairman Dr Naeemi stated that the government had the authority to restrict access to harmful content, aligning such measures with Sharia principles. He emphasised that preventing access to offensive material is consistent with Islamic teachings.

Addressing a question about the permissibility of VPNs under Sharia, Dr. Naeemi explained that while VPNs serve as tools for security and privacy, they are frequently misused to access restricted or illegal websites. These include obscene content, platforms spreading misinformation, or those promoting societal unrest. He also noted that VPNs are sometimes employed for online theft and fraud, complicating efforts to trace cybercriminals.

Dr. Naeemi stressed that the permissibility of an action in Islam depends on its purpose and means of use. Utilizing VPNs for unlawful activities contravenes both Islamic values and national laws, he said, adding that Muslims have a duty to uphold state laws unless they conflict with Islamic principles.

He cautioned that circumventing restrictions on blocked websites not only violates legal frameworks but also breaches Islamic ethical guidelines.