Reports indicate that the session, chaired by Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, featured Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar presenting the proposed amendments to PECA. The bill aims to address concerns such as fake news and enhance the regulation of social media platforms.
Authority to Remove Online Content
The proposed amendments include the creation of the Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), which will have the power to remove online content, access prohibited or obscene materials, and take action against individuals sharing such content.
New Definition for Social Media
The amendments redefine “social media platforms,” including tools and software used to access these platforms. The bill proposes revisions to Section 2 of PECA, broadening the definitions of “websites,” “applications,” and “communication channels.”
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Establishment of DRPA
The government will establish the DRPA to offer recommendations to both federal and provincial governments regarding digital ethics and related concerns. The authority will also promote research and education on social media platforms while ensuring the protection of online users.
Regulatory Powers
The DRPA will regulate social media content under PECA, investigate complaints, and block or restrict access to unlawful content. It will establish timelines for social media companies to comply with its directives and facilitate their registration or the setting up of local offices in Pakistan.
Structure and Operations
The authority will comprise a chairperson and six members, all appointed for a three-year term. Decisions will be made by a majority vote, with the chairperson holding the power to issue directives for blocking unlawful content, which must be confirmed within 48 hours.
Definition of Unlawful Content
The amendments expand the definition of unlawful content to include:
- Anti-Islamic or anti-state material
- Content that threatens public order, obscenity, or immorality
- Contempt of court and incitement to crime or terrorism
- Hate speech, defamation, and blackmail
- False news, especially targeting state institutions or the judiciary
Penalties and Tribunal Establishment
Spreading false news will carry a penalty of up to three years in prison and a fine of PKR 2 million. A Social Media Protection Tribunal will be set up to resolve cases within 90 days, and appeals can be made to the Supreme Court within 60 days.
Cybercrime Investigation Agency
The government plans to establish the National Cybercrime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), which will take over all cases and resources from the FIA Cybercrime Wing. The NCCIA director general will hold the rank of IG Police.
Abolishment of FIA Cybercrime Wing
The amendments suggest dissolving the FIA Cybercrime Wing, transferring its resources and budget to the NCCIA. Additionally, sharing deleted content related to parliamentary or Senate proceedings will result in a three-year jail sentence and a fine of PKR 2 million.
These proposed amendments aim to combat cybercrime, enforce digital ethics, and improve the regulation of online activities in Pakistan.
