The federal government has taken a significant step to regulate online content by introducing the E-Safety Authority Bill. This bill aims to establish an E-Safety authority that will closely monitor websites, web channels, and YouTube channels.
Federal Cabinet Approves E-Safety Authority Bill
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, heading the Federal Cabinet, has granted approval to the E-Safety Authority Bill. This bill will empower the newly formed authority to regulate and supervise online platforms effectively.
Strengthened Online Content Monitoring with E-Safety Bill
With the Ministry of IT’s active involvement, the E-Safety Bill has been prepared and forwarded to the Federal Cabinet for approval. This bill seeks to enhance the monitoring and control of digital content on various online platforms.
The federal government is set to introduce the E-Safety Authority Bill, aiming to address the rising concerns about online content. Under this bill, a new E-Safety authority will be established to closely monitor and regulate websites, web channels, and YouTube channels. The authority will take over the responsibilities previously held by PTA, FIA, and PEMRA, ensuring more efficient and effective oversight.
To address the challenges posed by false news, the E-Safety authority will have the power to register, monitor, and even impose penalties on websites found spreading misinformation. Additionally, the bill aims to revise Section 37 of the PICA Act, as it currently fails to meet its intended objectives. Consequently, the web monitoring authority will be withdrawn from PTA, and the powers granted to FIA under the PICA Act will be reevaluated for better effectiveness.
The bill further highlights the limitations of social media rules formulated under the PECA Act, as PTA lacks the ability to block content on social media platforms. The proposed solution involves establishing a separate authority to address cybercrimes effectively, as the burden on FIA’s existing responsibilities has proven to be overwhelming.
Moreover, the E-Safety authority will also assume the responsibility of registering online news websites, restricting PEMRA’s powers in this regard. The authority will also decide on the allocation of advertisements to government-approved websites, web channels, and YouTube channels, aligning with government policies.
