ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly passed the controversial Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Bill, 2025, amid a heated walkout by PTI lawmakers and journalists. The bill, which has raised concerns about media freedom and digital rights, introduces stricter regulations on online content and imposes severe penalties for the dissemination of “fake news.”
The bill proposes new provisions, including Section 26(A), which criminalizes the intentional dissemination of false information likely to cause panic or unrest. Violators could face imprisonment of up to three years or a fine of Rs2 million. It also establishes the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority, tasked with overseeing digital content, blocking unlawful material, and enforcing stringent regulations on social media platforms.
Critics argue that these amendments suppress freedom of expression and curtail press freedoms. Journalists and civil society groups, including the Joint Action Committee (JAC) and Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), have strongly opposed the bill, condemning it as an attempt to silence dissenting voices. The Karachi Press Club (KPC) has also expressed concerns, warning that the new measures could be misused to stifle legitimate journalism.
Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar defended the bill, stating that it seeks to regulate social media and prevent the spread of misinformation. He assured that “working journalists” registered with press clubs would not be targeted, and emphasized the need to curb child pornography and deepfake content.
However, digital rights activists warn that the amendments could have a chilling effect on online discourse, allowing authorities to arbitrarily censor content. Usama Khilji, director of digital rights group Bolo Bhi, criticized the bill, stating that it “makes a bad law worse” by broadening the definition of disinformation and granting excessive power to regulatory bodies.
The government has invited stakeholders for further discussions, but journalists and opposition leaders remain skeptical, demanding that the bill be withdrawn or significantly revised to protect democratic freedoms.
