Govt finalises legal panel to combat disinformation, cyberbullying: Zahed

PM’s Information and Broadcasting Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman. Photo: PID

Prime Minister’s Adviser on Information and Broadcasting Dr Zahed Ur Rahman on Tuesday said the government has completed the formation of a legal panel to provide legal support against disinformation, misinformation and cyberbullying, with only a few administrative formalities remaining before it becomes operational.

Speaking at a media briefing, the adviser said the government is particularly concerned about the spread of disinformation and the growing incidents of cyberbullying, especially against women.

“The Information Ministry is very serious about tackling disinformation. We are also concerned about cyberbullying, particularly the abuse that women regularly face online,” he said.

Zahed Ur Rahman said the ministry had earlier announced plans to establish a panel of lawyers to deal with such incidents through legal means, and that the process has now been completed.

“The legal panel has been finalised. Some administrative procedures, including advertisement, interviews and verification, have already been completed. Only a formal approval remains, which is expected within the next couple of days,” he said.

Describing the initiative as “good news for the general public,” the adviser said the panel would help people who become victims of online disinformation, fake content and cyber abuse.

“Information can also be used as a weapon. Anyone can become a victim of disinformation, false cyberbullying, fake photos or fake videos. This legal panel is meant to protect such people,” he said.

At the same time, he warned those involved in creating or spreading false information and online harassment.

“This is certainly bad news for those who create or spread disinformation and cyberbullying. The state and the government are taking these offences very seriously. Those involved should be careful,” he said.

The adviser also stressed the importance of improving digital literacy, saying the government has a responsibility to educate people so they can identify and avoid misinformation while taking legal action against those who deliberately spread harmful falsehoods.