In a groundbreaking move, Jamia Binori Town in Karachi has issued a fatwa denouncing the widely popular video-sharing platform TikTok and urging authorities to impose a ban on its usage. The fatwa, issued by the prominent Islamic institution, highlights concerns about TikTok’s exploitation of inappropriate content for financial gain.
The religious decree emphasizes that TikTok has become a breeding ground for illicit activities, including the circulation of prohibited images, videos, and music, as well as the dissemination of indecent content and the propagation of inappropriate humor. The fatwa categorically states that, from a religious standpoint, the use of TikTok is unequivocally forbidden and impermissible.
The institution voiced its apprehension, stating, “Young and even elderly individuals are engaging in various activities to earn money, some of which may not align with a strong moral character.”
TikTok, owned by the China-based ByteDance, has seen massive popularity in Pakistan, with over 39 million downloads in 2022 alone, according to data from the mobile and digital analytics firm Sensor Tower.
Religious leaders oppose TikTok, citing moral concerns. Calls for a ban reflect a wider push in religious circles to address potential harms, urging both individuals and policymakers to consider its implications.
