The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication in Pakistan has recently formulated new social media rules as part of the e-Safety Bill 2023, granting the regulator sweeping authority to take immediate action against any social media platform, website, channel, or streaming service for potential violations. Under these rules, offenders may face closure or up to a 5-year jail term, and surprisingly, even employees and directors of a guilty entity can be held liable.
The bill further targets false or misleading information provided by registered social media platforms, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment for repeated offenses. Additionally, unregistered platforms could face imprisonment for up to five years.
Notably, all Social Network Platforms must obtain a registration certificate to operate legally in Pakistan, and they must abide by strict guidelines concerning the coverage of accidents, violence, and crime to prevent promoting anti-social behavior.
Furthermore, any content that defames the judiciary or armed forces, or impacts ongoing inquiries or trials, will be met with action. The e-Safety Complaints Commission will have the authority to impose penalties for violations, and individuals have the right to appeal decisions to the eSafety Tribunal.
With these new measures, the Pakistani government aims to enforce responsible social media practices and ensure the safety and integrity of online spaces. However, concerns have arisen over potential implications for freedom of expression and individual rights.