Punjab Drafts AI Law to Protect Artists

Lahore: (Web Desk) – The Punjab government has drafted a groundbreaking law aimed at safeguarding artists from the unauthorised use of artificial intelligence, introducing strict penalties for deepfakes, voice cloning and digital identity misuse.

The proposed Punjab Performers Digital Identity and Artificial Intelligence Protection Act, 2026 seeks to create a comprehensive legal framework regulating AI-generated content while protecting the digital rights of performers across the province.

Under the proposed legislation, the use of an artist’s voice, facial features or digital likeness through artificial intelligence without permission will be strictly prohibited. Individuals and organisations will be required to obtain explicit written consent before replicating a performer’s identity using AI technologies.

The bill formally recognises a performer’s digital identity as protected property, giving artists greater authority over the commercial and digital use of their image, voice and likeness.

Officials said the law would impose strict controls on AI voice cloning and deepfake technology, making transparency mandatory in the creation and distribution of AI-generated content. Any content produced using artificial intelligence would be required to carry a clear disclosure indicating AI involvement.

The proposed framework also calls for separate contracts and compensation agreements for AI-generated performances. No digital replica or AI-created version of a performer’s identity could be used without prior approval.

To combat misinformation and manipulation, the legislation proposes tough penalties for creating or sharing fake endorsements, advertisements or political messages generated through AI using an artist’s identity.

Violators could face hefty financial penalties worth millions of rupees as well as imprisonment. The proposed law includes punishments of up to three years in jail for the unauthorised use of AI-generated likenesses.

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Additional safeguards have been introduced for child performers, requiring parental consent before any AI-based use of the voice, image or digital identity of individuals under 18 years of age.

The legislation also extends protection to deceased artists by preserving their digital identities for 25 years after death, preventing unauthorised commercial exploitation during that period.

As part of the proposed regulatory framework, Punjab plans to establish a digital rights registry to document and protect performers’ digital identities and ownership rights.

Officials believe the legislation will set clear legal standards for AI companies, media organisations and content creators while promoting transparency, accountability and consent in the use of artificial intelligence. The government says the law could position Punjab among the leading jurisdictions addressing emerging AI-related challenges.