Pakistan’s National Assembly passed the contentious Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) Amendment Bill on Thursday evening, introducing stricter penalties for spreading fake news online. Under the new law, individuals found guilty of disseminating false information could face up to three years in prison, a fine of 20 million Pakistani rupees, or both. However, the bill has drawn sharp criticism from journalists, political parties, and digital rights activists, who argue that it undermines freedom of speech.
The bill’s passage was met with immediate opposition in the National Assembly, with opposition parties staging protests and journalists boycotting the session. Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar defended the legislation, claiming it targets fake news peddlers rather than professional journalists. Despite this assurance, critics contend that the law is designed to stifle dissent and restrict freedom of expression.
The proposed amendments include the establishment of a “Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority,” which would oversee the registration of social media platforms, set content standards, and issue orders for the removal of illegal material. The bill also stipulates that anyone intentionally spreading fake news to incite fear or panic among the public could face severe penalties.
The government maintains that the law is necessary to combat the spread of misinformation. However, opposition leaders and activists argue that it represents an overreach of state power. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Zartaj Gul accused the government of attempting to curtail freedom of expression, stating, “First, they built a firewall, and now they are introducing this bill.”
Digital rights activist Farieha Aziz told BBC Urdu that the bill significantly expands the federal government’s authority, enabling greater control over social media. She warned that the legislation would limit freedom of speech and access to information. Journalist organizations have also voiced strong opposition, with Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) President Afzal Butt accusing the government of failing to consult stakeholders. He argued that the bill aims to criminalize dissent.
In response, a joint action committee of journalist organizations has announced plans to challenge the bill in court and launch nationwide protests. The committee has called for the bill’s approval in the Senate to be delayed pending consultations with stakeholders, threatening to escalate protests if their demands are ignored.
While the government insists the law is essential to curb fake news, critics view it as a tool to suppress free speech. The coming days will reveal whether the government revisits the bill or chooses to disregard the growing opposition.
