The Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecom is preparing to review the “Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Bill 2024” during its upcoming session. Introduced by Senator Afnan Ullah, the bill aims to regulate the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence (AI) in Pakistan through a structured regulatory framework.
The legislation proposes the formation of an Artificial Intelligence Commission, which will oversee AI-related activities. This commission will consist of one chairperson and four members, all entitled to salaries and benefits on par with MP-1 officers. A specialized AI regulation fund will be created by the federal government to cover the commission’s operational costs. Key provisions of the bill include ensuring equitable access to AI technologies for all citizens and increasing human oversight in AI management and usage across different sectors. The commission will also be tasked with ensuring accountability and transparency in data collection, storage, and usage, while promoting the security and resilience of AI systems. Furthermore, the bill seeks to encourage environmentally sustainable economic practices related to AI.
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The bill outlines procedures for addressing violations, allowing individuals to file complaints with the commission. Once a violation is confirmed, the commission will initiate enforcement actions against the offenders. Appeals can be directed to the High Court or other government-established tribunals. Offenders may face fines ranging from Rs. 1.5 billion to Rs. 2.5 billion, with stricter penalties for cases involving sensitive or classified data.
In June of the previous year, the Ministry of IT and Telecom drafted an AI policy, which was made available for public feedback. To refine the policy, a committee was formed with representatives from industry, academia, civil society, and the government to ensure comprehensive stakeholder input. This AI policy is still in draft form, with ongoing consultations to finalize it. Although the recent standing committee meeting was postponed, the AI bill remains on the agenda for the next session, where further discussions will take place. If approved, the bill will establish crucial regulations for AI technologies, safeguarding privacy, security, and human dignity while promoting responsible AI use in Pakistan.
