Pakistan’s PECA Amendment Bill Spark Debate on Press Freedom and Digital Regulation

In a significant move, President Asif Ali Zardari has officially signed the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Bill 2025 (PECA), endorsing the controversial legislation aimed at combating digital crimes. This decision comes after a series of political discussions and delays surrounding the bill, particularly due to concerns raised by journalists and media organizations over its implications on press freedom.

In addition to the PECA amendment, President Zardari also signed two other important pieces of legislation: the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2025, which aims to enhance Pakistan’s digital infrastructure, and the National Commission on the Status of Women (Amendment) Bill 2025, which seeks to empower women’s rights and advocacy.

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The PECA amendment bill had been the subject of much debate, with Maulana Fazlur Rehman and several journalists expressing concerns over its potential impact on freedom of speech. Reports suggested that the president had delayed the signing of the bill to allow consultations with journalists and other stakeholders, a step that was seen as crucial for ensuring broader support.

Despite these consultations, the bill sparked considerable opposition, particularly from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). The party raised concerns about the lack of sufficient stakeholder involvement, especially from media organizations. PPP Vice President Sherry Rehman and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari voiced their disapproval, stating that it would have been better for the legislation if journalists’ organizations had been consulted to build consensus on the amendments.

“This legislation should have been a product of wider consultations, especially with media bodies,” Rehman stated. “We were assured that all stakeholders would be taken on board, but as we can see, this did not happen.”

The Pakistan Federation of Union of Journalists (PFUJ) also expressed their dissatisfaction, leading to a protest demonstration by the joint action committee of media bodies outside the Karachi Press Club. Protesters, including civil society groups, trade unions, and legal representatives, voiced their concerns against the recent amendments in the PECA, arguing that it could stifle press freedom and give the government excessive powers to regulate online content.

What’s New in the PECA Amendments?

The newly signed amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) include stringent penalties for spreading disinformation and unlawful online content. Under the proposed law, individuals found guilty of spreading fake news could face up to three years in prison and fines of Rs2 million. Additionally, the amendments introduce the establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), which will have the authority to regulate social media platforms, remove unlawful content, and investigate complaints related to digital ethics. The DRPA will also have the power to enforce digital compliance, with social media companies being mandated to register and appoint local representatives.

Supporters of the bill argue that these measures are necessary to combat the rising tide of fake news, hate speech, and cybercrimes. They claim that the amendments are essential for creating a safer and more responsible digital environment in Pakistan. However, critics, including media bodies, warn that the law could be used as a tool for censorship, curbing free speech, and suppressing dissenting voices.

Mazhar Abbas, a senior member of PFUJ, commented on the situation, stating, “The government has to learn from the past when this law was used against the very same party that hurriedly passed it. This time, it’s crucial to ensure it’s not misused to silence journalists.”

A Complex Debate

The PECA Act was first introduced in 2016 with the aim of addressing cybercrimes such as hacking, data theft, and online harassment. While the original law was aimed at regulating electronic communication and ensuring cyber safety, the amendments to the law have stirred controversy, particularly due to the perceived lack of media involvement in shaping the legislation.

Despite the concerns, the amended PECA Act was passed by both the National Assembly and the Senate before being sent to President Zardari’s office for final approval. Its enactment marks a significant step in Pakistan’s efforts to tackle digital crimes, but also raises questions about the balance between security, free speech, and press freedom.

As Pakistan moves forward with these legislative changes, the nation will have to navigate the complex intersection of national security, technological progress, and the preservation of fundamental freedoms in the digital age.

This news takes inputs from Dawn and The Express Tribune and is intended for informational purposes only.