Social Media Regulatory Authority set up under PECA, chairman and members named

The Government of Pakistan has formally established the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority (SMPRA) under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, marking a significant step towards regulating digital platforms in the country.

According to an official notification issued by the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control, Ayaz Shaukat has been appointed as the first chairman of the authority. He will be joined by five members — Sohail Iqbal, Adnan Khan, Muhammad Salman Zafar, Fahad Malik and Muhammad Saad Ali — all appointed for a term of five years.

The establishment of SMPRA has been described by the government as a major reform aimed at ushering in a new era of digital governance. The authority will function as a central regulatory body tasked with monitoring social media platforms, protecting user data and ensuring that online content complies with Pakistani laws.

Under the framework, all local and international social media platforms operating in Pakistan will be required to register with the authority. Officials said that platforms failing to comply with regulations could face partial or complete bans.

The authority will also have the power to order the removal of content deemed illegal, misleading or against state interests within 24 hours. Additionally, it will oversee efforts to curb the spread of objectionable and unlawful material online.

As per the structure outlined in the notification, SMPRA will consist of a chairman, five private members and three government representatives. Its headquarters will be based in Islamabad, with the option to establish offices in provincial capitals if required.

While the government has termed the move necessary to regulate the rapidly evolving digital landscape and ensure responsible online behaviour, critics have raised concerns, warning that the authority could pose risks to freedom of expression and increase state control over digital spaces.

The development comes amid growing global debates over social media regulation, data protection and the balance between security and civil liberties.