The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has introduced stricter laws to deal with the spread of hateful and sectarian content.
These changes make such actions serious criminal offenses and punishable by up to 14 years in prison and fines of up to Rs50 million.
The Ministry of Law and Justice in AJK issued an advisory detailing the amendments, which now include cybercrimes under the Penal Code. The advisory highlights the government’s determination to curb online activities that promote hatred and sectarianism.
Under the updated laws, posting content on social media that incites sectarianism or spreads hatred will result in severe consequences. Offenders will be charged under Sections 489 and 189 of the Penal Code.
These measures reflect the AJK government’s commitment to preserving social harmony and addressing the harmful effects of online hate speech.