Fake news could lead to five years in jail, Rs1m fine under new cybercrime bill

Draft proposes a Digital Rights Protection Authority to remove or block harmful content on social media platforms

The government has drafted an amended Cybercrime Bill, introducing stringent penalties for spreading fake news, including up to five years in prison or a fine of up to Rs1 million for individuals found guilty of disseminating false information, Express News reported.

According to reports, the initial draft includes significant revisions, including provisions for removing content that spreads panic or targets law enforcement agencies, other institutions, or individuals.

The draft also proposes the establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Authority, which would have the authority to block or remove harmful material from social media platforms.

Sources reveal that the authority would have the power to order the removal of content related to defamation, incitement to violence, or material intended to create fear. The authority could also remove content aimed at spreading hate against the state, its institutions, the judiciary, or the military.

Furthermore, the draft bill includes measures to remove content that promotes religious, sectarian, or ethnic hatred, as well as content related to pornography, fake allegations, and terrorism.

The Digital Rights Protection Authority will be led by a chairman and six members, three of whom will be ex-officio and the individuals affected by the authority's decisions will have the right to challenge them in a tribunal.