Claim: A purported notification is circulating on social media, claiming that the Govt of Pakistan has imposed an immediate ban on the writings of renowned Urdu author Saadat Hasan Manto. The notification is dated June 22, 2025, and bears the name of the @MoIB_Official. Key points of the alleged notification include:
1. Educational institutions have been instructed to immediately remove Manto’s works from curricula, libraries, and reading lists.
2. Print and electronic media have been barred from publishing or broadcasting any excerpts or content related to Manto.
3. Social media platforms and digital websites have allegedly been ordered to remove Manto’s stories and any related videos or analytical content, failing which legal action would be taken.
4. Publishers, booksellers, and online stores have reportedly been directed to immediately cease the sale and distribution of Manto’s books. The viral notification sparked strong reactions from social media users. Writers, journalists, and citizens condemned it as a violation of freedom of expression. One user on Platform X posted the alleged notification with the caption: “The world moves forward, yet the State of Pakistan moves backwards. After 70 years, Saadat Hasan Manto’s writings are once again being banned under the pretext of obscenity. But Manto merely unveils reality. If one seeks obscenity, they should consult canonical texts like Sahih Sitta and Fatawa-e-Alamgiri.”
Fact-Check: Our team’s investigation confirms that the viral notification is entirely fake. The Govt of Pakistan has not issued any such ban on Manto’s writings. Moreover, the @MoIB_Official has officially denied the claim through its verified account @FactCheckerMoIB on Platform X, stating: “The spread of fake news is not only unethical and illegal but also an injustice to the nation. Every individual must reject such irresponsible behavior.” Further research reveals that the notification does not exist on the Ministry’s official website or any other credible government source. Additionally, a spokesperson from the @hecpkofficial clarified that no such directive has been received. No official institution has issued or received any directive regarding a ban on Manto’s writings. This clearly proves that the viral notification is fake and baseless.
Background Context: Saadat Hasan Manto’s work has historically been controversial. During his lifetime in both pre- and post-Partition South Asia, he faced multiple obscenity trials due to his bold depiction of social realities, sexual exploitation, and the brutal aftermath of the Partition of India. Despite early criticism, Manto is now recognized as one of the most significant voices in Urdu literature—an intellectual and critical lens through which society reflects upon itself.
Conclusion: It has been clearly established that the viral notification is baseless and fabricated. Such disinformation not only distorts reality but also damages cultural discourse and societal trust. Responsible use of social media is essential to uphold truth and protect our cultural values. We urge citizens to verify the authenticity of any news or notification before sharing it on social media. #MantoWorkBan#viralnotification#RealityCheck#NoOfficialBan#FakeNewsAlert
