ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): A new proposed bill, “Prohibition of Obscenity and Vulgarity on Digital Media Bill 2025”, is set to be presented in the National Assembly in the next session to curb obscene and vulgar content.
PPP MNA Dr Syeda Shahida Rehmani introduced the draft, which gives the state broad authority to control obscene and vulgar content on the internet.
The legislation aims to stop offensive content on the internet, with the fines ranging from Rs100,000 to Rs100 million.
The proposed law applies to all online and offline platforms, including social media platforms, applications, streaming services, films, web series, live broadcasts and advertisements
Prohibited content includes sexual immorality, extramarital affairs, drug use, semi-nude dressing and violation of public morality.
Content deemed offensive to religious sentiments, mocking Islamic attire such as hijab or Purdah, ridiculing religious figures or undermining Pakistan’s ideology and cultural values also falls under the ban.
To implement the legislation, an authority, a board, and a tribunal will be established. The NCCIA will investigate the cases, while prosecution will be carried out under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016.
The proposed will comprise eight members, including two religious scholars, a man and a woman, two psychologists, a female civil society representative, a media legal expert, a media professional tasked with viewing prohibited material and a federal government representative who will serve as the chairperson of the board.
The tribunal includes a high court-level judge, a media professional and an IT expert, who will look after each case accordingly.
The bill proposes one year imprisonment and a Rs 500,000 fine for a first-time offender, three years jail and a 5 million fine for a second time and and up to five years imprisonment with a Rs 10 million fine for cases involving religion, women, children, or the family system.
Digital platforms would have to block unlawful content after 24 hours of notice, report uploads within 15 days, and keep records for three years. Offences shall not be bailable or compoundable.
