The federal government has decided to introduce legislation that will regulate social media. In this regard, amendments to the PECA Act 2016 will establish the Digital Rights Protection Authority.
PECA Act 2016
According to sources, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has approved the authority’s establishment through an amendment to the PECA Act.
The amended bill, as well as the establishment of the Digital Rights Protection Authority, were proposed by the Cabinet’s Legal Reform Committee.
Ministry of Information Technology
The Ministry of Information Technology, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, and other stakeholders were asked to make recommendations on this bill.
According to sources, the Digital Rights Authority will be established under the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications.
The authority will advise the government on matters concerning digital rights. It will promote responsible internet use and enforce regulations.
The authority will encourage collaboration with social media platforms in order to foster a positive digital ecosystem.
Digital Rights Authority
The proposed Digital Rights Authority will oversee online content. It will look into alleged social media law violations.
The Digital Rights Authority will take action against those who violate the new PECA law.
The authorities may also summon individuals and witnesses involved in digital rights violations. The Digital Rights Authority may also establish rules for enforcing digital rights laws.
The bill recommending the creation of the Digital Rights Protection Authority will be presented to the federal cabinet.
The new proposed PECA bill 2024 will be presented to Parliament following Cabinet approval.
After receiving approval from Pakistan’s parliament and president, the authority will be established under the Ministry of IT and Telecom.
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