The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has urged its members to escalate nationwide protests against recent amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 (PECA). This call to action follows the organization’s prior demonstrations held on January 27, which included symbolic protests by journalists chaining themselves in Islamabad’s D-Chowk, a manifestation of the perceived encroachments on press freedom.
The controversial amendments, passed swiftly by the National Assembly, have broadened the government’s authority over digital content. The newly formed Pakistan Digital Rights Protection Authority is empowered to censor online content and limit social media access. A particularly contentious change is the introduction of section 26(A), which seeks to penalize the dissemination of “fake news” with severe sanctions, including imprisonment of up to three years or a fine reaching PKR 2,000,000 (approximately USD 7,150).
Criticism has been sharp from both domestic and international circles. Amnesty International has voiced significant concern over the vague language and stringent penalties within the amendments. The organization warns that such measures could further chill press freedom and expression in a country where previous iterations of PECA have been used to stifle dissent.
The amendments also expand the definition of “social media platform” to include any website, application, or communication channel. This potentially enables the government to curb access to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), which have become essential tools for Pakistanis navigating social media restrictions, including broad bans on platforms such as X (formerly Twitter).
Media organizations in Pakistan, including PFUJ, condemned the legislation’s passage, highlighting the absence of consultation with journalists and media bodies. They see the law as a government tactic to suppress dissent and undermine freedoms. In protest, PFUJ declared a “Black Day,” during which journalists nationwide donned black armbands and held rallies centered at the National Press Club.
In addition to organized protests, legal challenges against the PECA amendments are underway. On Friday, the Lahore High Court issued notices concerning a petition by journalist Jaffar Ahmad Yar questioning the constitutional validity of the amended provisions. Section 26A, in particular, was criticized for failing the tests of proportionality and necessity. The court will allow further proceedings once the stances of involved parties are fully presented. More details can be found at JURIST.