All Posts in Digital Rights Tracker

May 20, 2026 - Comments Off on AJK to Implement AI-Based Safe City Project

AJK to Implement AI-Based Safe City Project

Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) plans to sign an MoU with the Punjab government to launch a Safe City project across three divisions. The initiative will deploy AI-based monitoring, facial recognition, and e-challan systems to modernize policing, traffic management, and crime detection. The project, supported by federal funding for a new Counter Terrorism Department, aims to improve emergency response through technology-driven infrastructure. IGP Liaqat Ali Malik emphasized that this integrated system prioritizes evidence-based policing and public security. AJK is also establishing an Elite Force and a dedicated Cyber Crime Force to bolster security and maintain civic order across the territory.

May 20, 2026 - Comments Off on National Assembly Launches AI-Driven Paperless Framework

National Assembly Launches AI-Driven Paperless Framework

Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq inaugurated Pakistan’s first AI-enabled parliamentary system, signaling a shift toward a paperless legislature. By integrating artificial intelligence into legislative processes, the National Assembly aims to increase transparency, improve efficiency, and reduce reliance on physical documentation. Funding is allocated for a modern data center, with training provided to IT staff through the National Information Technology Board. This phased digital transformation encompasses budget documentation and parliamentary affairs. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to digitizing state institutions, leveraging modern technology to enhance the support structure for lawmakers and streamline the assembly's overall operational performance and legislative speed.

May 20, 2026 - Comments Off on Legal Proceedings for Rights Lawyers Imaan Mazari and Hadi Chatha

Legal Proceedings for Rights Lawyers Imaan Mazari and Hadi Chatha

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) issued notices regarding early hearing requests for sentence suspension pleas filed by human rights lawyers Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chatha. The couple, sentenced to 17 years for "cyber terrorism" and "glorification of an offence" under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), remains in jail following a 2025 conviction linked to social media posts. The IHC previously raised procedural objections regarding the non-submission of certified Supreme Court orders. The court eventually adjourned the matter until after Eidul Azha, as legal counsel continues to advocate for the suspension of sentences pending the resolution of their criminal appeals.

May 19, 2026 - Comments Off on Sindh Police Expands Investigation into Digital Drug Networks

Sindh Police Expands Investigation into Digital Drug Networks

Sindh IG Javed Alam Odho confirmed multi-agency investigations, involving the FIA and NCCIA, into drug dealer Anmol alias Pinky. Authorities are probing financial records and the migration of narcotics trade to cyberspace. The IG emphasized that crimes are increasingly shifting online, necessitating collaboration between law enforcement and specialized cyber agencies to track digital money laundering and recruitment of youth. While the suspect faces 15 active cases, police maintain strict security protocols to prevent potential witness tampering. The investigation aims to dismantle supplier networks and secure evidence of illegal operations conducted via digital platforms across multiple jurisdictional domains.

May 19, 2026 - Comments Off on Death Sentence for Murderer of Influencer Sana Yousaf

Death Sentence for Murderer of Influencer Sana Yousaf

An Islamabad sessions court sentenced Umar Hayat to death for the 2025 murder of 17-year-old TikTok influencer Sana Yousaf. The detailed court order rejected all claims of leniency, citing "overwhelming evidence," including judicial confessions, forensic fingerprint matches, and eyewitness testimony. Hayat, who initially confessed to an obsession-driven killing before retracting his statement, was also ordered to pay Rs2.5 million in compensation. While the convict maintains his innocence, the court established his guilt through corroborating medical and digital forensic proof. The death sentence is now subject to confirmation by the Islamabad High Court.

May 14, 2026 - Comments Off on FBR considers AI-based monitoring system

FBR considers AI-based monitoring system

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is considering introducing AI-based monitoring systems as part of the upcoming tax enforcement reforms in the upcoming federal budget for 2026-27. According to the proposal presented at a meeting, AI tools would be used to detect false information in tax returns, identify underreporting and non-reporting of income and flag discrepancies through data cross-checking. This reform, amongst others, aims to increase transparency, expand the tax base and modernize Pakistan’s tax administration through tech-driven solutions.

May 14, 2026 - Comments Off on IPO Pakistan begins digital digital transformation

IPO Pakistan begins digital digital transformation

The Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan (IPO Pakistan) has launched a six-month digital transformation initiative that will modernize trademark, copyright, and patent services across the country. The plan focuses on automation, AI, and an online complaint management system to make intellectual property services faster, more transparent. It will be replacing traditional paper-based procedures with digital processes aimed at reducing delays, improving quality and minimizing litigation linked to trademark disputes. 

May 13, 2026 - Comments Off on Digital harassment protection system launched in Punjab

Digital harassment protection system launched in Punjab

A new digital harassment protection system has been launched by the Chief Minister of Punjab aimed at combatting online abuse, cyberbullying and digital blackmail, particularly against women. The proposed system includes confidential complaint mechanisms, virtual support centers and panic-button facilities to improve emergency response and victim protection. Authorities also plan on establishing a cybercrime unit and patrol wing to strengthen digital law enforcement. 

May 11, 2026 - Comments Off on Pakistan summons Norwegian nationals for defamation  case

Pakistan summons Norwegian nationals for defamation  case

The National Cybercrime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) in Pakistan has summoned three Norwegian nationals in connection with an alleged online defamation campaign targeting businessman and Pakistani ambassador Umar Farooq Zahoor. The notices direct the three men to appear before investigations in Lahore and record their statements. Inquiries began after Zahoor filed a complaint in a Lahore court accusing the suspects, reporters for a Norwegian tabloid, of spreading defamatory allegations against him in collaboration with Indian media outlets. The publication falsely stated that Zahoor was being wanted by the Norwegian authorities.

May 11, 2026 - Comments Off on HEC launches online degree attestation system

HEC launches online degree attestation system

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has launched a fully online and paperless degree attestation system aimed at making the process faster and more convenient for students and graduates across the country. Applicants will no longer have to visit the HEC offices physically or submit original documents through the post but will be processed through the HEC e-Services Portal. This upgraded system will use digital verification and secure e-attestation certificates to improve transparency and efficiency.