Tech Desk 
Jan 23, 2025
With the PECA Amendment Bill 2025 in Pakistan, awaiting approval from the National Assembly, providing an enhanced digital regulation in the country. The National Assembly on Thursday, approved the bill, a contentious bill aimed at regulating social media in Pakistan.
Federal Minister Rana Tanveer presented the PECA Amendment Bill 2025, seeking to establish a new authority to oversee social media platforms and protect users’ rights.
PECA's new social media protection authority
Under the new Clause 1A, the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority will be created. The authority's head office will be in Islamabad, with additional offices in provincial capitals.
The authority will have the power to register social media platforms, cancel registrations, set standards, and take disciplinary action against platforms that do not comply with the rules.
Moreover, the authority will also issue directives for the removal of illegal content from social media.
Individuals will be required to file complaints about illegal activities on social media within 24 hours. The authority will consist of nine members, including the Secretary of the Interior, the Chairman of PTA, and the Chairman of PEMRA as ex-officio members.
Furthermore, the chairman must have a bachelor’s degree and at least 15 years of relevant field experience and will be appointed for a term of five years.
