LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved a major initiative to address the growing issue of harassment and blackmailing on social media, particularly targeting children and women, by establishing a dedicated Punjab Cyber Crime Unit.
During a meeting, it was decided that special mobile units will be set up to facilitate minor boys and girls affected by online harassment and blackmailing, enabling them to lodge complaints without visiting police stations or offices. The victims, especially women and children, will also be able to register complaints through a Virtual Police Station, the Cyber Crime Unit front desk, and the PKM mobile application, while ensuring complete confidentiality of their identity.
The government has also decided to introduce strict legislation to ensure exemplary punishment for perpetrators involved in social media harassment and blackmailing. In this regard, work has commenced on the initial draft of the Punjab Online Safety Act 2026 which will soon be presented for approval.
The meeting resolved to establish a Cyber Patrol Wing and a Cyber Police Academy under Punjab Police. Additionally, an advanced intelligence system will be introduced for effective social media monitoring and surveillance. The chief minister directed authorities to adopt a proactive approach to curb cybercrime and ensure robust data protection measures. She said cybercrime poses a serious challenge and safeguarding the younger generation remains a top priority. She emphasized that modern technology and tools will be fully utilized to protect young girls from blackmailing, while urging parents to closely monitor their children’s social media usage.
She asserted that no individual has the right to intrude upon the privacy of others and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to bringing cyber criminals to justice and setting a strong precedent.
Meanwhile, Sindh Governor Nehal Hashmi called on PMLN President Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz here on Friday.
The meeting focused on matters of mutual interest, with both sides exchanging views on the overall political and economic situation of the country. Nehal congratulated the PMLN leadership on Pakistan’s role in facilitating an Iran-United States ceasefire, terming it a significant diplomatic achievement. He also expressed gratitude to Nawaz for his trust.
