The federal government has proposed a new law, which includes a five-year prison sentence or a Rs1 million fine for those found guilty of intentionally spreading fake news, as part of amendments to the cybercrime law, PECA 2016.
The draft law also introduces the creation of a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), which will have the power to block or remove online content deemed harmful to public safety or state interests.
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The law would impose severe penalties for spreading false information, causing panic, or disrupting peace on digital platforms. The DRPA would be able to block content targeting law enforcement, state institutions, or individuals, as well as material promoting hate speech, terrorism, or violence.
Content involving threats, false accusations, or pornography will also be subject to removal. Decisions made by the authority can be contested in a tribunal, ensuring checks and balances.
These amendments come in response to concerns from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration over the misuse of social media to spread fake news and propaganda, posing a threat to national interests.
The government has also been testing an internet firewall, leading to intermittent internet disruptions that have slowed speeds and limited access to social media platforms.
