PM clears PECA law tweaks to regulate social media

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has approved tweaks in the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016 to regulate social media, said a report.

Quoting unnamed official sources, the report said that the prime minister has approved a draft for amending the PECA.

The proposed PECA Amendment Bill 2024 suggests the establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Authority.

After approval from the cabinet, the proposed bill will be presented in the parliament for approval.

Under the proposed bill, a decision has been made to establish the Digital Rights Protection Authority.

The cabinet’s Legal Reforms Committee had recommended the proposed amendment bill and the establishment of the Digital Rights Protection Authority.

The proposed PECA bill and the establishment of the Digital Rights Protection Authority will fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Information Technology.

The authority will advise the government on digital rights-related matters, ensure responsible use of the internet and enforce regulations.

It will collaborate with social media platforms to facilitate the promotion of a positive digital ecosystem.

It will also regulate online content, investigate violations of the new PECA law on social media and take action against violators.

The proposed authority will be able to demand information from involved individuals and witnesses.

It may also establish rules to enforce laws related to digital rights and will create a secure and trustworthy digital environment while promoting user protection online and safeguarding fundamental rights.

This bill has been formulated to protect the privacy of citizens from the dangers associated with social media; it has no connection with institutions. Last week, the IT Ministry issued an order to establish the National Cyber Crime Investigation Authority.