In a bid to address the growing threat of digital terrorism, the federal government has designated special courts in Islamabad under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca), 2016. These courts are tasked with trying individuals accused of “digital terrorism” and those involved in spreading “anti-state propaganda” through digital content. The decision, emerging from a recent law ministry notification, highlights the government’s intent to crack down on malicious activities in the virtual realm.
Special Courts to Combat Digital Terrorism
The federal government’s decision to establish these special courts comes after consultation with the Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court. According to the notification, additional district and sessions judges, as well as civil judges-cum-magistrates from Civil Districts & Sessions Divisions (East) & (West) in Islamabad, will preside over these courts. It is aimed to expedite the trial process for offenses under Peca, ensuring that those accused of digital terrorism face swift justice.
Sources within the ruling coalition have indicated that these courts could also try recently arrested officials from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party including individuals like Information Secretary Raoof Hasan and International Media Coordinator Ahmed Waqas Janjua, who are accused of engaging in anti-state activities through digital platforms. The government’s efforts align with statements from military leadership, underscoring the threat posed by digital terrorists who, like traditional extremists, aim to destabilize the state and its institutions.
Government’s Stance on the Issue
The designation of special courts is meant to address the evolving challenges of cyber threats. Military spokesperson Lt-Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry recently highlighted the dangers posed by digital terrorists, equating their activities to those of conventional terrorists in terms of their impact on national security. The move also follows warnings from Chief of Army Staff Gen Syed Asim Munir about the efforts of “inimical forces” to create divisions through digital propaganda.
In tandem with this judicial development, the interior ministry has announced the formation of a joint investigation team to scrutinize digital content for anti-state elements.
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