| Official Secrets Act, 1923 | |
| Legislature: | Imperial Legislative Council |
| Territorial Extent: | British India (formerly) Pakistan |
| Assented By: | Viceroy Rufus Isaacs, 1st Marquess of Reading |
| Location: | Pakistan |
| Enacted: | 1923 |
| Status: | In force |
| Purpose: | Protecting state secrets and maintaining national security |
The Official Secrets Act, of 1923 is a law in Pakistan that traces its origins back to the British colonial era in India. Enacted during that time to protect state secrets and maintain the security of the British Empire, the Act continues to be in force in present-day Pakistan.
The Official Secrets Act, of 1923 was initially introduced by the British Indian Government as a means to safeguard classified information and maintain the integrity of official matters. Its primary objective was to prevent unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information that could potentially harm national security.[1]
The Act consists of seven sections that outline the provisions related to the protection of official secrets. It establishes the definition of an official secret and specifies the penalties for unauthorized possession, communication, or disclosure of such information. The Act also addresses acts of espionage or any activities that may jeopardize the security of the nation.[2]
According to the Act, individuals who hold positions or occupations that provide them access to official secrets are bound by a duty of confidentiality. They are prohibited from sharing or communicating such information with unauthorized persons, including foreign governments or organizations. Violation of this duty is considered a criminal offense.[3]
The Act empowers the government to conduct investigations, search premises, and seize materials in cases related to suspected offenses under the Official Secrets Act. It also provides the legal framework for the prosecution and punishment of individuals found guilty of violating the Act's provisions. Penalties may include imprisonment and fines.[3]
The Official Secrets Act, of 1923 plays a crucial role in protecting classified information and upholding national security in Pakistan. It ensures that individuals entrusted with access to official secrets maintain strict confidentiality and refrain from unauthorized disclosure. By establishing legal consequences for violations, the Act acts as a deterrent against espionage and other activities that may pose a threat to the nation's interests.[2]