THE government is setting an ominous trend by resorting to the shutdown of cellular phone networks on major holidays or each time there is a threat of terrorist acts. Plans are now afoot to suspend cellular services in parts of the country over the Eidul Azha holidays as the interior ministry has information of possible terrorist strikes during the festival. Cellphone services were also blocked on the eve of Eidul Fitr and suspended in Balochistan on Independence Day. But how effective has this practice proved so far? While it is true that no major act of terrorism took place during Eidul Fitr when the shutdown was enforced, the measure failed to curb the widespread violence that occurred in major cities last month on the day officially dedicated to protesting an anti-Islam film.

Shutting down cellphones amounts to addressing the symptoms, not the disease. There was indeed life before cellphones; but so deep is their penetration in society that the devices have become essential communication tools that cut across economic lines. Equally true, shutting down cellular services particularly on occasions like Eid spoils the festivities. While terrorists do use cellphones to coordinate and carry out attacks, millions of common citizens also use the devices to check on loved ones during these times. What is more, militants are constantly adapting their methods and unfortunately often stay ahead of law-enforcers where technology is concerned, so it is unrealistic to assume blanket bans on cellphone usage during certain periods would hinder their activities too much. A more intelligent counterterrorism approach is needed. The easy availability of cheap, unverified SIMs needs to be checked, while the relevant authorities need to ensure that all connections are properly registered. Inconveniencing the public through methods such as road blockades, pillion-riding bans and cellphone shutdowns hurts common people more than the terrorists.