ISLAMABAD – The federal government on Tuesday proposed five years jail term and a fine of Rs1 million under new cyber law against those spreading fake news in teh country.
The initial draft of the Cyber Crime Amendment Bill was prepared, under which anyone found spreading fake news, would be punished with 5 years in prison or a fine of Rs1 million.
The federal government also prepared the initial draft of the Cyber Crime Amendment Bill, which includeed the establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Authority.
The Digital Rights Protection Authority will have the authority to block or remove content from social media and can issue orders to remove content against law enforcement agencies or any individual. Additionally, the content that spreads false news and incites fear related to law enforcement agencies and other institutions will be removed.
The authority will also have the power to remove content that spreads hatred against the state and its institutions.
Under the amended bill, content related to intimidation, false accusations, and pornography will also be removed. Those who deliberately spread false information, create fear, and sow distrust will face 5 years in prison or a 1 million rupees fine.
According to the officials, the authority will consist of a chairman and six members, and decisions made by the authority can be challenged in a tribunal.
