Former Balochistan Government Spokesperson Defends PICA Act Amendments, Criticizes Misleading Propaganda

Quetta:Former Balochistan Government Spokesperson Jan Achakzai has responded to the ongoing negative propaganda surrounding the amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), stating that the critics, including so-called human rights advocates, have either not read the Act properly or failed to understand its true intent. In a statement on social media platform X, Achakzai emphasized that the amendments are designed to address the growing issue of fake news and misinformation, which he believes contribute to societal chaos, instability, and often have severe consequences for the nation.

Achakzai explained that the spread of fake news harms national identity and security, undermines public trust, and exacerbates conflicts. He pointed out that the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) has made the dissemination of fake videos and audios easier, necessitating strict measures at the government level to combat these problems. He argued that the PECA amendments aim to align Pakistan’s cyber laws with global best practices while ensuring digital security and protecting the right to lawful expression.

The former spokesperson highlighted the creation of the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority (SMPRA) under the amendments, which will monitor social media platforms and enforce regulations to prevent the spread of false and harmful propaganda. Additionally, a Complaints Council has been established to address complaints related to false content, and the formation of a Social Media Protection Tribunal will ensure swift legal action against perpetrators of cybercrimes, including those responsible for spreading fake news.

Achakzai also noted that the establishment of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) will replace the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) Cyber Crime Wing and provide broader investigative powers to tackle cybercrimes effectively.

Furthermore, Achakzai assured that the amendments include provisions for citizens to appeal in cases of injustice, ensuring their right to justice and protection from wrongful decisions. He argued that these measures are not aimed at restricting freedom of expression but at protecting the public from misleading and deceptive content.

Drawing comparisons with regulatory bodies worldwide, such as Ofcom in the UK and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the US, Achakzai reinforced the idea that governments globally take such actions to protect their citizens from harmful content.

He concluded by asserting that these amendments are not intended to suppress free speech but to create a responsible media environment that contributes to national security and strengthens democracy. He accused those opposing the amendments of having an agenda to harm the nation and its people, and reiterated that the changes in the PECA Act are a necessary step in combating the spread of fake news and propaganda.