Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the amendment in the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECCA) 2016 to regulate social media. The establishment of Digital Rights Protection Agency under the proposed PICA Act 2024 was also approved.
Sources say that the new proposed PICA Bill 2024 will be presented in the Parliament after the approval of the Cabinet. It has been decided to create a Digital Rights Protection Authority under the PICA Law Amendment Bill.
According to the sources, the Legal Reforms Committee of the Cabinet had recommended the proposed amendment bill and the establishment of the Digital Rights Protection Agency. The Ministry of IT will be in charge of the amendment bill and the Digital Rights Protection Agency. The authority will advise the government on issues related to digital rights.
Sources say that the Digital Authority will ensure responsible use of the Internet and compliance with regulations, the Authority will facilitate collaboration with social media platforms to promote a positive digital ecosystem, the proposed Digital Rights Authority will regulate online content, The authority will investigate violations of the law on social media.
According to the sources, the Digital Rights Authority will take action against the violators of the new PICA law, the Digital Rights Authority will be able to summon the involved persons and witnesses, the authority will also be able to make rules for the implementation of the digital rights laws.
Last week, the IT Ministry had issued an SRO regarding the creation of the National Cybercrime Investigation Authority.
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**Interview with Dr. Aisha Khan, Digital Rights Advocate**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Khan. The recent approval of the amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECCA) and the establishment of the Digital Rights Protection Authority has stirred quite a conversation. What are your initial thoughts on these developments?
**Dr. Khan:** Thank you for having me. I think this is a significant step toward addressing the complexities of digital rights in our country. The creation of a Digital Rights Protection Authority is essential if we want to ensure that individuals can navigate online spaces safely and responsibly.
**Interviewer:** Some critics argue that these regulations could lead to censorship and stifle freedom of expression. How would you respond to those concerns?
**Dr. Khan:** It’s a valid concern. While regulation is necessary to prevent misuse of social media, it’s crucial that these laws do not infringe on freedom of expression. The key will be transparency in how the Digital Rights Authority operates and ensuring it acts in the public interest without overreach.
**Interviewer:** Given the authority’s ability to regulate online content and investigate violations, do you think there should be independent oversight to ensure accountability?
**Dr. Khan:** Absolutely. Independent oversight would enhance trust in the system. If citizens feel that there are checks and balances in place, they will be more supportive of regulations, understanding that it’s aimed at protecting their rights rather than suppressing them.
**Interviewer:** As this bill moves to Parliament, what do you think is the most critical aspect for lawmakers to focus on?
**Dr. Khan:** Lawmakers must emphasize clarity in defining the authority’s scope and limits. We need frameworks that explicitly protect user privacy rights and enforce fair procedures for any content regulation or investigation.
**Interviewer:** That sounds like a complex balancing act. How can the public participate in shaping these regulations to ensure their rights are preserved?
**Dr. Khan:** Public input is vital. Citizens should engage with policymakers through forums, surveys, and discussions. Advocacy groups can play a significant role in amplifying public concerns and recommendations to ensure that the regulatory framework reflects the values and needs of the people.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Khan, for shedding light on this important issue. It will be interesting to see how the dialogue unfolds as the proposed PICA Bill 2024 moves through Parliament.
**Dr. Khan:** Thank you for having me. I urge everyone to stay informed and active in this crucial conversation about our digital rights.
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**Question for Readers:** As the government prepares to regulate social media through new amendments and the establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Authority, do you believe this will enhance protections for online users or lead to increased censorship? What are your thoughts on finding a balance between regulation and freedom of expression?
