Mohsin Naqvi: Pakistan Launches Sweeping Crackdown on Fake News and Misinformation

In a significant move to curb the proliferation of false information, Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Monday declared a major nationwide action against fake news. Speaking at a press conference, Naqvi revealed that the Ministry of Information, in collaboration with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), will spearhead an extensive campaign targeting the spread of misinformation on social media platforms.

Naqvi expressed strong concerns over the current digital landscape, asserting his belief that up to 90 percent of recent social media content is fabricated. While emphasizing his unwavering support for freedom of expression and the right to constructive criticism, he drew a clear distinction between legitimate discourse and unregulated misinformation.

Defining Digital Accountability and Legitimate Journalism

The Interior Minister highlighted the fundamental differences in accountability between traditional and social media. Unlike mainstream journalism, where entities like the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) ensure oversight and journalists are bound by editorial hierarchies, social media largely operates without such regulations. “Anyone can post any picture or create any news and share it. We will not allow this,” Naqvi stated, underlining the government’s commitment to restoring credibility to online information.

He further stressed that authentic reporting must be anchored in verifiable evidence. “You cannot just make any allegation, declare someone dead or alive on your own. This cannot be allowed,” he warned, confirming that the Information Ministry and NCCIA would soon commence action on a substantial scale. Naqvi clarified that this initiative is not aimed at journalists, but rather at individuals who intentionally propagate false narratives. He also pointed out that a new regulatory framework is actively being developed to address these challenges.

Addressing Critical National Security and Governance Issues

Beyond the crackdown on fake news, Minister Naqvi addressed several other pressing national concerns during his briefing:

Navigating Afghan Migrant Repatriation Challenges

Naqvi shed light on the difficulties faced in repatriating undocumented Afghan migrants, particularly from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). He asserted that Afghan camps, officially de-notified by the federal government, remain operational within the province. The minister also reiterated concerns about the involvement of Afghans in recent terrorist incidents, including the November 24 attack on the Federal Constabulary headquarters in Peshawar. Station House Officers (SHOs) have been tasked with identifying illegal Afghan residents for repatriation, accompanied by a stern warning: “My message to illegal Afghans is: leave respectfully. If you return after being deported, you will be arrested.” Furthermore, Naqvi underscored that national security policies cannot be subject to provincial discretion, indicating the federal government is exploring various options to ensure KP’s full compliance.

Clarifying International Travel Protocols

Dismissing rumors of widespread travel bans, Naqvi clarified that only a small number of individuals—between 50 and 70 daily nationwide—are offloaded from flights due to incomplete documentation. He urged the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to release comprehensive data to counteract what he described as a social media campaign orchestrated by “agent mafias.” The minister reaffirmed the government's dedication to enhancing Pakistan’s passport ranking globally.

Dispelling Rumours on Key Appointments and National Integrity

Naqvi also addressed public speculation regarding delays in the notification of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). He dismissed these rumors, explaining that establishing a new institution following a constitutional amendment is a methodical process requiring both time and adherence to proper procedures. “They want things to happen at the press of a button. Systems take time to establish,” he noted.

The Interior Minister did not shy away from national integrity, implicitly referencing recent interviews given by the sisters of PTI founder Imran Khan to Indian media. He emphasized the critical importance of national boundaries that must never be crossed. Additionally, Naqvi firmly stated that the state would not tolerate criticism targeting Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, sending a clear message to those abroad: “This will have to stop. Those sitting abroad should know: you are coming back soon.”

A Unified Vision for a Secure and Accountable Pakistan

In conclusion, Minister Naqvi’s announcements underscore a comprehensive strategy by the Pakistani government to foster a more secure, accountable, and transparent national environment. From tackling the pervasive issue of fake news to asserting federal authority on critical security matters and safeguarding national integrity, these measures reflect a determined effort to address multifaceted challenges and build a more stable future for the nation.

Mohsin Naqvi: Pakistan Launches Sweeping Crackdown on Fake News and Misinformation