The Government of Punjab has prepared a groundbreaking new law — the Punjab Performers’ Digital Identity and AI Protection Act 2026 — aimed at protecting artists and performers from the growing threat of artificial intelligence misuse.
The proposed legislation directly addresses one of the most pressing concerns in today’s digital age — the unauthorized use of a performer’s voice, facial features and digital identity through AI-generated content. It is being seen as a major step toward safeguarding the rights and dignity of Pakistan’s entertainment industry professionals.
What Will Be Illegal Under the New Law?
Under the draft legislation, the following activities will be considered criminal offences:
- Creating deepfakes of performers without their consent
- Cloning an artist’s voice using AI tools
- Producing fake endorsements using a performer’s likeness
- Generating any digital content featuring a performer’s identity without written permission
Producers and content creators will be legally required to obtain clear written consent before using any AI tools involving a performer’s identity. They must also openly disclose any AI involvement in films, advertisements or other productions.
What Are the Penalties?
The law introduces strict punishments for anyone found violating these rules — including imprisonment of up to three years along with heavy financial fines.
Special Protections
The proposed bill also includes the creation of a digital rights registry to formally protect performers’ identities and give them legal ownership over their digital likeness. Special safeguards have been included for minors and deceased artists, with protections remaining valid for up to 25 years after death — ensuring that no one can exploit an artist’s identity even after they are gone.
For Pakistan’s artists and performers, this proposed law represents a much-needed shield against the dark side of AI — and a clear message that their talent, identity and dignity will be protected by law.
