KARACHI: Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has raised an alarm over the growing threat of Deepfakes and Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated content, labeling it a significant challenge for both the government and the fabric of society. Speaking at a session titled “Fake News and Artificial Intelligence” during the second day of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Conference in Karachi, Memon emphasized that the issue has escalated beyond governance, now posing a serious threat to political parties and public order.
The Need for AI Detection Tools
The Senior Minister revealed that while the Information Department is monitoring the situation 24/7, the rapid evolution of digital manipulation requires advanced technological solutions. He stated that the development of robust AI detection tools is now an urgent requirement to distinguish between authentic and fabricated content. Memon specifically noted an increasing trend of spreading misinformation using the branding of reputable TV channels and the use of voice or video cloning. To counter this, the government is continuously monitoring all major social media platforms including Facebook, X, TikTok, and Instagram.
“Those spreading fake content will face consequences. Misinformation is not just a digital nuisance; it can become a threat to human lives,” Memon warned.
Legislative and Structural Reforms
Minister Memon stressed that while the PECA Act is already in place, it requires further refinement to effectively tackle modern digital threats. He advocated for uniform legislation across all sectors, professional training for journalists to prevent the spread of unverified news, and strict accountability for those disseminating falsehoods. The session, hosted by Sharmila Faruqui, also featured MNA Daniyal Chaudhary, who noted the massive spike in AI usage over the past year and called for a more comprehensive legal framework for the future.
Security Concerns and Climate Change
MPA Farah Azeem Shah from Balochistan highlighted the dangerous use of altered videos by terrorist groups to demoralize security forces and create a rift between the state and citizens. She emphasized that transparent and timely communication is the only antidote to propaganda. In a separate session on climate change, Senator Sherry Rehman warned against the excessive use of plastic and the alarming depletion of groundwater reserves. She cautioned that the Indus River is not an infinite resource and urged a move toward recycling and sustainable industrial solutions to avoid a looming environmental catastrophe.
