Pakistan’s government proposes tough penalties for spreading fake news online

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistani government amended the cybercrime law to impose stricter penalties on individuals guilty of intentionally spreading fake news. Proposed changes: those convicted could face up to five years in prison or a fine of Rs1 million.

The draft amendments include a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), which would be granted broad powers to remove or block online content deemed harmful to public safety, state interests, or national security. The new legislation seeks to address the growing concern over the misuse of digital platforms and public order.

According to the draft, individuals guilty of spreading false information, inciting fear, or creating unrest through online platforms could face imprisonment and fines. The law also targets content that promotes religious or ethnic hatred, terrorism, and violence against the state. Additionally, the authority removes online material involving threats, false accusations, or pornography.

The DRPA will be led by a chairman and six members, including three ex-officio members. The authority will be responsible for upholding digital rights and ensuring cybersecurity. Decisions made by the authority can be challenged in a tribunal, providing a system of checks and balances.

This proposal comes amid growing concerns by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif over the misuse of social media platforms to spread fake news and propaganda, which poses a threat to Pakistan’s national interests. The government has previously criticised the increasing use of digital platforms to disseminate false information about the country’s security and stability.

The new measures follow recent disruptions to internet services in Pakistan, including trials of an internet firewall that led to slow internet speeds and disruptions in access to social media platforms. These disruptions have made it difficult for users to share media and access various online platforms, although the reasons for these outages remain unclear.