IT Minister Tells Senate Standing Committee that PECA amendments are under review

December 10, 2024
Access to Information, Media and Governance, Social Media
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Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja informed the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecommunication on December 5 that amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 (PECA) were under review to “address concerns regarding misinformation.”

The prime minister’s adviser, Barrister Aqeel Malik, had earlier confirmed amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, and said they were aimed at “eliminating misinformation and negative propaganda.”

The draft Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2024, includes the establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA) with wide-ranging powers to block or remove online material deemed harmful. The DRPA will replace the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) in its role under PECA.

During the meeting on the Senate standing committee, Senator Afnanullah of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) questioned the government’s authority to restrict internet tools, arguing that no law explicitly grants such powers.

Khawaja said that the PECA amendment was intended to address concerns regarding fake news and misinformation online. As per Khawaja, the amendment did not intend to restrict internet or free expression.

Regarding internet disruptions, Khawaja said the slowdown was due to an “increase in internet users.”

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman, retired Maj Gen Hafeezur Rehman, PTA Chairman retired Maj Gen Hafeezur Rehman denied claims of an official policy to slow down internet speeds, instead stating that the internet may be disrupted due to the “proposed licensing of VPNs.” He said that PTA would introduce the licensing of VPNs would begin from January 1, 2025.

The Senate committee also discussed plans to improve digital infrastructure. Khawaja revealed that the government is in talks with Starlink, to bring their services to Pakistan. She also announced plans for a 5G spectrum auction in April 2024.