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Govt Eyes PICA Law Amendment, Digital Nation Pakistan Bill in Focus
The government seeks tighter control over online content with proposed PICA law amendments, while the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill aims to establish a unified digital identity system for citizens.
ND
by News Desk
2024-12-16
Govt Eyes PICA Law Amendment, Digital Nation Pakistan Bill in Focus

The federal government has initiated discussions with political allies to amend the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PICA) for stricter regulation of online content. According to sources, the proposed changes are expected to be presented in Parliament as early as next week.

Stricter Digital Content Regulations

The amendments to the PICA law aim to address concerns over the spread of misinformation and harmful online content. Senior government officials revealed that the updated legislation would empower authorities to regulate digital platforms, investigate violations, and prosecute offenders through two newly established regulatory bodies.

The proposed changes reflect the government’s efforts to adapt the law to evolving digital challenges while addressing growing calls for accountability in the online sphere.

Digital Nation Pakistan Bill: A Major Leap Towards E-Governance

In addition to PICA amendments, the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill is set to be introduced in the National Assembly today. This landmark legislation seeks to establish two pivotal institutions:

1.     National Digital Commission:

    • Chaired by the Prime Minister and comprising the four chief ministers, the heads of the State Bank of Pakistan, Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
    • This body will oversee the strategic implementation of digital transformation across the country.

2.     Pakistan Digital Authority:

    • Composed of leading technology experts, this authority will handle operational aspects of the digital governance framework.

Unified Digital Identity System

The cornerstone of the Digital Nation Pakistan Act is the creation of a comprehensive digital identity for every citizen. The proposed system aims to centralize and streamline access to essential services, including:

  • Birth certificates
  • Educational and health records
  • Land ownership details
  • Business registrations
  • Police clearance certificates
  • National identity cards

This initiative will provide uninterrupted access to these services, significantly improving government efficiency and public convenience.

Progress Towards E-Governance

Officials have confirmed that 65% of federal government operations have already transitioned to e-governance. The proposed bill will accelerate this shift, aiming to enhance transparency, reduce bureaucracy, and improve service delivery for citizens.

Balancing Regulation and Progress

While the proposed amendments to PICA have drawn concerns over potential overreach and restrictions on freedom of expression, government sources emphasize the need for a balanced approach to regulate the digital space.

The Digital Nation Pakistan Bill, on the other hand, promises to bring transformative changes to Pakistan’s digital landscape by integrating modern technology into governance.

These legislative moves highlight the government's commitment to fostering a secure and innovative digital ecosystem while addressing the challenges posed by an increasingly interconnected world.
Tagged:

DigitalPakistan

PICAAmendments

Egovernance

DigitalIdentity
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