The Lahore High Court (LHC) Tuesday disposed of a case of a fake video attributed to Information Minister Azma Bokhari going viral on social media.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, the three-member bench of the LHC disposed of the petition expressing satisfaction over the Federal Investigation Authority's (FIA) cybercrime report.
A three-member bench headed by the Chief Justice of the High Court Justice Aalia Neelam heard the petition of Azma Bokhari on Tuesday and disposed of the case.
Federal and Punjab government law officers, including Deputy Attorney General Asad Ali Bajwa, Director of FIA Cyber Crime Syed Hashmat Kamal, and other officers, appeared before the court.
Deputy Director FIA Asad Ali Bajwa submitted the report on behalf of FIA Cyber Crime in court.
During the hearing of the case on Tuesday, Chief Justice LHC ordered that the FIA submit a fortnightly report of the case to the Deputy Registrar Judicial.
Chief Justice Aalia Neelam said Azma Bokhari's plea was completed in the light of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) (PECA) Amendment Act, 2025.
Azma Bokhari had filed the petition alleging that on July 24, Falak Javed shared a doctored video on X (formerly Twitter), which was subsequently circulated by hundreds of users, damaging her reputation.
The petitioner called for legal action against Falak Javed and others involved, urging the court to place Javed's name on the Exit Control List (ECL) and demand an investigation report from the FIA.
About PECA Amendment Act 2025
Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act 2025
In January 2025, Pakistan’s Parliament passed the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act 2025, (PECA Act) introducing significant changes to the nation’s cybercrime legislation.
This amendment aims to enhance regulatory oversight of online content and impose stricter penalties for disseminating disinformation.
Key Provisions of PECA Act
Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA):
The amendment proposes the creation of the DRPA, tasked with regulating social media content, investigating violations, and blocking unlawful online material. The authority will consist of a chairperson and six members, including officials from the ministries of information and IT, as well as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). The Chairperson holds emergency powers to block content, subject to ratification within 48 hours.
Redefinition of Social Media Platforms:
The amendment broadens the definition of “social media platforms” to include websites, applications, and tools facilitating digital communication. This expanded scope encompasses any individual or entity operating such platforms within Pakistan.
Content Regulation and Penalties:
The DRPA is empowered to regulate a wide range of content deemed unlawful, including blasphemy, hate speech, incitement to violence, obscenity, defamation, and material against the defence or security of Pakistan.
The amendment introduces penalties of up to three years in prison and fines of Rs2 million for individuals found guilty of intentionally disseminating false or fake information likely to cause fear, panic, or unrest
Compliance requirements for Social Media Platforms:
Social media platforms may be required to register with the government, establish local offices, and appoint representatives in Pakistan. Companies will also be given deadlines to remove content flagged by the authority or face penalties.