The provincial government of Punjab has banned smart glasses, pens, watches and other devices fitted with hidden cameras and recording equipment, citing the need to protect public privacy.
The Home Department announced the decision on Monday, saying the measure aims to safeguard the privacy and personal information of citizens, with particular emphasis on women and children.
A spokesperson for the department said strict legal action would be taken against the use, purchase and sale of spying equipment and concealed electronic devices.
Complaints of illegal surveillance, harassment and blackmail carried out through such devices had emerged in recent weeks, the department said, and strict penalties would be imposed for misuse of everyday items equipped with hidden cameras.
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari said recording and releasing content at will had become a habit, and questioned who gave people the authority to do so.
Azma Bokhari added those seeking views should upload videos on social media instead. Bokhari said she had announced several surprises at her previous press conference, and that a young man was martyred again today.
The decision follows concerns over the unregulated import and sale of camera- and microphone-equipped devices in Pakistan, which can be used to record people without their knowledge. The issue has also reached the courts, with the Lahore High Court hearing a petition against smart glasses last month, filed by a citizen.
The petitioner urged the court to ensure public privacy and security rights were not infringed, arguing that commercial interests and user convenience should not override the constitutional rights of people who may be recorded without their knowledge.
Last week, the court asked the government whether it knew smart glasses were sold in shops and what steps it had taken.
