The proposed piece of legislation is set to formally pave the way for the government to tap phones and use e-mails and text messages as proof in trials.
During today’s committee meeting, Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N) raised concerns over the bill and enquired how authorities will ensure this bill will be used only against criminals and common men will not be unduly harassed.
The bill, however, will be reviewed again before it is presented in the parliament.
Fair Trial Bill
According to the law, the government can access “data, information or material in any documented form … through audio visual device, CCTV, still photography, bugging, observation or any mode of modern devices or techniques obtained under the Act … documents, papers, pamphlets, booklets” for surveillance.
The government can also intercept “emails, SMS, internet protocol detail record, call detail record and any form of computer based or cell phone based communication. It also includes any means of communication using wired/wireless/internet protocol-based media/gadgetry.”
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