The Amendment in the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) amendments 2016 brought out by the federal government provides hard penalties for intentionally spreading fake news. Such culprits have been given five years in prison, and a fine of up to Rs1 million, or both, according to Geo News.
These amendments also recommend establishing a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA) to regulate online content and to block or remove information deemed unsafe for public or state interests.
The proposed amendments include punishment for indulging in a false report creating panic or disturbing public peace through the medium of digital channels. Convicts might be sentenced in addition to financial punishment.
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The authority will supervise and direct the removal of contents that target either state institutions or law enforcement agencies and individuals, or that instigate terrorism, religious or ethnic hatred, or incite violence. The act also includes content about threats, false accusations, or pornographic content, along with the enabling appeal to the tribunal for all decisions taken by DRPA.
The DRPA will consist of a chairman and six members, among whom three will be ex-officio members, who will be responsible for digital rights and enhancement of cybersecurity protection across the country.
The proposed amendments are supposed to come at a time when the government is worried about the various uses of social media platforms in spreading fake news and propaganda. PM Shehbaz’s government has repeatedly raised the threats this kind of activity brings to national security.
Recently, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar alleged against the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) that it made use of artificial intelligence in making fake images and misleading content on social media. He described the viral images and videos from the party tenure in 2019 accusing PTI of trying to manipulate public perceptions.
Controversial as they would, the proposals from the government actually appear to be unruffled in terms of seriously regulating the digital landscape, although the debate regarding their implications for freedom of expression and privacy will undoubtedly emerge.