ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formed a committee tasked with drafting a bill aimed at regulating social media platforms.
Addressing a press conference here in Islamabad on Monday, Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar justified making law on social media by saying that many countries have already implemented similar measures.
The newly established committee, approved by the cabinet, will be chaired by advisor to the premier, Rana Sanaullah. Its primary objective is to engage with various stakeholders and gather input to formulate comprehensive proposals for the proposed legislation.
Azam Nazeer Tarar urged the judiciary to refrain from making sensational remarks and instead focus on issuing appropriate orders. His remarks were made in response to comments made by Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani of the Islamabad High Court regarding a missing person case involving poet Ahmed Farhad.
“The remarks passed today by a judge are not the mandate of the courts” he added
Tarar also criticized the remarks about summoning a cabinet meeting in the courtroom, stating that it undermines the authority of parliament, as protected under Article 248 of the constitution.
Meanwhile, concerns have been raised by journalistic organizations regarding the potential establishment of a Digital Media Authority, fearing government overreach.
In response, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar reassured that the government is committed to a consultative approach and will involve all relevant stakeholders in the decision-making process.
He emphasized inclusivity and pledged to address the concerns of journalistic bodies during discussions on the proposed legislation.
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