In an effort to combat misinformation and propaganda on online platforms, the government has drafted amendments to Pakistan’s cybercrime laws. These proposals, reported by Geo News on Tuesday, include stringent penalties for those found guilty of spreading fake news and propaganda against the state.
Key elements of the draft include the establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), tasked with identifying and removing harmful online content. This authority will also regulate content deemed threatening to public safety or state interests.
Proposed Penalties and Scope of Amendments
Under the updated Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 (PECA), the proposed changes introduce severe punishments for:
- Spreading false information or inciting panic.
- Disrupting peace through digital platforms.
- Promoting ethnic or religious hatred, terrorism, or violence.
The DRPA will also have the authority to block or remove:
- Content targeting state institutions, law enforcement, or individuals.
- Material involving threats, false accusations, or pornography.
The draft specifies a system of checks and balances, allowing decisions by the authority to be challenged in a tribunal.
Structure of DRPA
The authority will consist of a chairman and six members, including three ex-officio members. Their responsibilities will include safeguarding digital rights and ensuring cybersecurity across the country.
Govt’s Concerns and Recent Developments
The government has expressed growing concerns about the misuse of social media to spread disinformation, often alleging its impact on national security. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration has pointed to the role of political entities, particularly Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in misusing online platforms.
Recently, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar accused the PTI of leveraging artificial intelligence to create misleading visuals and recirculating outdated content to manipulate public perception. He dismissed claims related to a viral video during a PTI protest, attributing it to misinformation.
Internet Disruptions and Firewall Testing
The government has also tested an internet firewall, causing widespread disruptions during trials in July and August. Though no official reasons were provided for subsequent slow internet speeds, these tests are seen as a step toward implementing tighter control over digital platforms.
The proposed law aims to strike a balance between combating harmful content and preserving digital rights, sparking debate over its potential impact on freedom of expression and access to information.
