ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting has decided to facilitate discussions between the government and journalists to address concerns regarding the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).
During a committee meeting, Chairman Phullain Baloch announced the formation of a sub-committee to review journalists’ concerns and ensure all stakeholders are heard. “We will sit down with journalists, listen to their grievances, and work towards a solution,” he assured.
Digital Media Regulation
Federal Minister for Information Atta Tarar clarified that PECA is intended solely for digital media regulation, leaving newspapers and TV channels unaffected as they are already governed by existing regulations. “Traditional media will not be impacted by PECA; in fact, its demand will likely increase,” he said.
Tarar also disclosed government plans to establish a Digital Media Regulatory Authority to oversee online content. “If you believe there’s a controversial clause in PECA, point it out,” he challenged.
Defending the regulation, he argued that unchecked digital media could create chaos, stating, “If digital media continues unchecked, people won’t be able to leave their homes.” He also emphasized that high-earning digital media influencers should contribute financially to the government.
Revival Plan for PTV
During the meeting, Tarar outlined a two-year revival plan for Pakistan Television (PTV), announcing that all ICC dues had been cleared and efforts were underway to make PTV globally competitive.
“The HD and Ultra HD project will be completed within two years, and the world will witness a transformed PTV,” he stated.
PFUJ Challenges PECA in Court
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has challenged the PECA Amendment Act 2025 in the Islamabad High Court (IHC), arguing that it infringes on press freedom and grants excessive censorship powers to the government.
PFUJ contends that PECA is unconstitutional, violating Articles 19 and 19A of the Constitution of Pakistan. The petition asserts that labeling news as fake without legal due process is a direct attack on freedom of expression and digital rights.
Additionally, the PFUJ president argued that the regulatory authority under PECA lacks constitutional legitimacy and urged the court to suspend the law immediately.
