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Govt proposes five-year jail and Rs one million fine for spreading fake news

ISLAMABAD: The federal government has proposed amendments to the cybercrime law, introducing a penalty of up to five years imprisonment or a fine of Rs1 million for individuals convicted of intentionally spreading fake news.

Key changes in the draft include the creation of a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), which will have broad powers to block or remove online content considered a threat to public safety or state interests. The draft stipulates that spreading false information, inciting fear, or disrupting public peace through digital platforms could result in severe consequences.

“Offenders may face both imprisonment and fines,” the draft states, targeting those responsible for creating unrest or spreading fear.

The DRPA will also have the authority to remove content directed at law enforcement agencies, state institutions, or individuals, as well as material that promotes religious or ethnic hatred, terrorism, or violence against the state. Content involving threats, false accusations, or pornography will also fall under its jurisdiction.

A tribunal system will allow individuals to challenge the authority’s decisions, ensuring a mechanism for checks and balances.

The DRPA will consist of a chairman and six members, including three ex-officio members, tasked with safeguarding digital rights and enhancing cybersecurity across the nation.

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I am an experienced writer, analyst, and author. My exposure in English journalism spans more than 28 years. In the past, I have been working with daily The Muslim (Lahore Bureau), daily Business Recorder (Lahore/Islamabad Bureaus), Daily Times, Islamabad, daily The Nation (Lahore and Karachi). With daily The Nation, I have served as Resident Editor, Karachi. Since 2009, I have been working as a Freelance Writer/Editor for American organizations.

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