Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has granted approval for a draft amendment to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, aimed at regulating social media.
Under the proposed amendment, the establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Agency (DRPA) has been endorsed within the framework of the PECA Act 2024.
The revised PECA Bill is slated for presentation in Parliament following Cabinet approval.
Sources indicate that the document, approved by the Law Reforms Committee of the Cabinet, highlights the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications’ consideration of establishing a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA) under the PECA 2016 to address evolving digital challenges.
The Ministry of IT will oversee the implementation of the Digital Rights Protection Agency, as outlined in the law.
Empowered to investigate social media law infringements, the authority will enforce the new PECA legislation by taking necessary actions against violators. Additionally, the Digital Rights Authority will possess the authority to summon and interrogate individuals involved in digital rights violations.
It’s noteworthy that last week, the Ministry of IT issued a Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO) to establish the National Cyber Crime Investigation Authority.
According to the notification, the agency will be led by an officer of grade 21 or higher, not exceeding the age of 63, serving as the Director General.
The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency will comprise Additional Director Generals, Directors, and Additional Directors. Furthermore, the agency’s structure will encompass Assistant Directors and other requisite positions.
The Director General of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency will be appointed by the federal government for a tenure of two years.
