Sindh plans provincial cell to counter false social media content

KARACHI: The Sindh government has decided to create a provincial-level cell aimed at countering what it described as false and misleading content on social media, according to an official statement issued on Wednesday.

The decision was discussed at a meeting of the Information Department chaired by Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon. The statement said Mr Memon called for the establishment of the body to curb the spread of inaccurate information online and to ensure accountability for those responsible.

During the meeting, participants reviewed measures to respond to online propaganda and campaigns that, according to the statement, were directed against national interests. Mr Memon said some elements were using social media platforms to circulate false and misleading material against the country and its national interests.

Addressing the meeting, the senior minister said legal steps should be taken against those involved in spreading such content. He was quoted in the statement as saying:

Effective legal action against those involved in spreading false and misleading information is essential.

Mr Memon, who also holds the portfolios of information, transport and mass transit, said the Sindh government wanted a dedicated provincial cell to help prevent cybercrime. He added that misleading propaganda could not be allowed under the pretext of freedom of expression.

The statement said the provincial government would take all possible measures to protect national interests and support the dissemination of accurate information. Mr Memon was also quoted as saying:

The Sindh government would take every possible step to safeguard national interests and promote the dissemination of accurate information.

The meeting was attended by Information Secretary Kashif Gulzar Sheikh, Director General Information Moiz Pirzada, Director Muhammad Yousuf Kaburo and other officials.