Digital Rights Protection Authority to Regulate Online Content
The government has introduced significant amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) in the National Assembly. The bill, presented by Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar during a session chaired by Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, focuses on addressing issues such as fake news and strengthening the regulation of social media.
Key Amendments in the Bill
- Establishment of Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA):
- DRPA will oversee the removal of online content, block access to prohibited materials, and take action against individuals sharing such content.
- It will provide recommendations to federal and provincial governments regarding digital ethics and encourage education and research in social media platforms.
- Expanded Definitions:
- The bill introduces a new definition of social media platforms, including tools and software used for access.
- It broadens the scope of terms like websites, applications, and communication channels under Section 2 of PECA.
- Regulatory Powers of DRPA:
- DRPA will regulate content, investigate complaints, and block unlawful content.
- Social media companies will be required to comply within specific timeframes and establish local offices in Pakistan.
Structure and Operations of DRPA
- DRPA will include a chairperson and six members, appointed for three years.
- Decisions will be made by majority vote, with the chairperson authorized to issue content-blocking directives, subject to confirmation within 48 hours.
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Definition of Unlawful Content
The amendments expand the scope of unlawful content, which now includes:
- Anti-Islamic or anti-state material
- Public order threats, obscenity, or immorality
- Contempt of court and incitement to crime or terrorism
- Hate speech, defamation, and blackmail
- False news targeting state institutions or judiciary
Penalties and Tribunal Establishment
- Spreading false news will result in three years of imprisonment and a fine of PKR 2 million.
- A Social Media Protection Tribunal will be created to resolve cases within 90 days. Appeals can be made to the Supreme Court within 60 days.
Cybercrime Investigation Agency
- A new National Cybercrime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) will be established to take over all FIA Cybercrime Wing offices and cases.
- The NCCIA Director General will hold the rank of IG Police, overseeing all operations.
Abolishment of FIA Cybercrime Wing
- The FIA Cybercrime Wing will be dissolved, with its resources and budget transferred to NCCIA.
- Sharing deleted content related to parliamentary or Senate proceedings will lead to three years of imprisonment and a fine of PKR 2 million.
