Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah announced the establishment of two key initiatives during the 32nd apex committee meeting held on Thursday at the Chief Minister’s House. These initiatives, which include the creation of a Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and the establishment of a Centre for Excellence to counter violent extremism, represent a significant step toward enhancing provincial security and digital governance.
The apex committee meeting was attended by key provincial ministers, security officials, and representatives from various federal and provincial departments, all of whom played an important role in the decision-making process. CM Murad, who chaired the meeting, laid out the details of these initiatives as part of his administration’s ongoing efforts to address both cyber threats and extremist ideologies.
The proposed Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority will be empowered with comprehensive powers to regulate harmful or offensive content online. This includes enforcing content standards, managing platform registrations, and overseeing the removal of unlawful content. The authority will also have the power to recommend full or partial blocking of platforms in cases of severe violations. Speaking about the initiative, CM Murad emphasized that this step was crucial in ensuring digital safety for citizens and protecting individuals’ rights in the virtual world.
“This initiative is aimed at securing the digital space and safeguarding the rights of individuals using social media platforms. We must take action to regulate online content that poses threats to security, public order, and the well-being of our citizens.”
The announcement comes at a time when social media platforms have increasingly become conduits for harmful content, including hate speech, extremism, and misinformation. This move is expected to tighten regulatory control over online activities and promote a safer digital environment. The new regulatory body will operate under the framework of PECA, which already provides legal mechanisms for tackling cybercrimes and online offenses.
In addition to the social media authority, CM Murad also revealed plans to establish a Centre for Excellence focused on Countering Violent Extremism (CVE). This centre will be tasked with conducting research, developing strategies, and formulating policies to combat violent extremism within Sindh. The centre will also play a crucial role in supporting investigations related to terror financing, particularly in the context of Pakistan’s obligations under the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
The centre’s mandate will include addressing the root causes of extremism, countering online radicalization, and tackling hate speech. It will also work to prevent youth delinquency and provide a comprehensive framework for responding to rising threats from extremist elements. CM Murad instructed the home secretary to present the draft legislation for the centre at the next cabinet meeting, signaling the provincial government’s commitment to confronting this issue head-on.
The establishment of the Centre for Excellence is part of a broader effort to address the growing security concerns in the region. The centre is expected to collaborate with other stakeholders, including federal law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, and international bodies, to strengthen the fight against extremism and terrorism.
During the meeting, CM Murad also discussed the need for enhanced coordination between Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan to conduct joint operations targeting bandits operating in the riverine areas. The recent surge in criminal activities in these areas has raised alarms, and the provincial government is keen on bolstering efforts to dismantle these criminal networks.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the success of the Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan (IFRP), which has been instrumental in addressing the issue of undocumented foreign nationals residing in Sindh. Over 85,000 illegal immigrants were deported during the 2023–24 period as part of the first phase of the repatriation plan. Transit centres for repatriation were established in Karachi, Hyderabad, and Jacobabad, under the supervision of the respective deputy commissioners, to facilitate the smooth deportation process.
In light of increasing concerns over public safety, particularly road accidents and incidents involving oil tankers and dumpers, CM Murad also directed law enforcement authorities to strictly enforce traffic regulations. Recent incidents of arson involving these vehicles have prompted the government to focus on ensuring accountability for those responsible for such acts of sabotage. The CM ordered heightened vigilance and stronger penalties for violators, calling for improved road safety measures across the province.
The creation of these two new authorities—focused on social media regulation and countering violent extremism—marks a significant step forward for the Sindh government as it navigates the complex challenges of modern governance. With these efforts, the provincial government aims to address both emerging threats in the digital space and the ongoing issue of violent extremism, ultimately working toward a safer and more secure environment for all citizens.
