Govt mulls regulating use of AI in Pakistan

The ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) is mulling regulating the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to prevent several risks, including privacy and security.

PML-N Senator Afnan Ullah Khan tabled the bill in the upper house, suggesting the imposition of fines against those who violate the rules.

The bill was referred to the Senate standing committee for more deliberation.

In the draft of the bill, Senator Khan expressed a dire need to monitor, regulate, superintend, and supervise AI, as he believed that the 'technology could lead the country to unseen catastrophe'.

Nevertheless, the Senator attempted to find positive ways to explore and develop business from AI by establishing a new “secure and well-protected” system that could drive growth and productivity in the country.

The bill further recommended establishing a “National Artificial Intelligence Commission in Islamabad, and it would have several key mandates, including ensuring equitable access to AI opportunities for all citizens, regardless of religion, gender, ethnicity, geography, financial status, and others.”

Moreover, AI matters related to security, health, and education should be surveillance to avoid “malicious practices” and ensure free from error use, stated the bill.

According to the bill, AI should be utilised to enhance public services, such as healthcare, finance trade, national security, and education. 

The bill aims to protect the privacy and safety of AI users and advocates transparency in AI data collection.

Additionally, AI would strengthen the country’s telecommunication system, digital governance, and cybersecurity.

The violation of AI rules would be fined ranging from Rs1.5 billion to Rs2.5 billion. However, it did not specify which violation would trigger these fines.