The Senate Standing Committee on the Interior approved amendments to the Electronic Crime Prevention Act (PECA), despite strong objections from journalists’ organizations and media organizations.
According Express NewsIn the meeting, chaired by Senator Faisal Saleem, the committee approved the PECA amendment bill.
During the session, journalist organizations expressed their opposition to the bill, criticized the lack of clarity in its provisions and expressed concern about its potential impact.
The committee chair questioned why journalists’ organizations did not submit their recommendations in writing, stating that they should have formally presented their suggestions to the committee.
During the meeting, Senator Irfan Siddiqui commented: “In this country, there is no need for a law to handcuff someone. “I was also arrested under the rental law.” Senator Kamran Murtaza also opposed the bill during the session. Despite this, the committee went ahead and approved the amendment.
The Secretary of the Interior defended the bill, stating that it is intended to protect the public. He added that the bill, as passed by the National Assembly, will only be passed in its current form.
Senator Irfan Siddiqui noted that agreements had been reached on certain amendments during the meetings between the Information Minister and journalists. He questioned whether the Ministry of the Interior intended to include additional amendments to the bill passed by the National Assembly.
The Presenters Association raised objections during the session, stating that they were not given adequate time to present their suggestions.
Journalist organizations criticized the bill, highlighting its vague definition of “fake news.” They argued that the bill could create more problems instead of solving existing ones.
Journalist organizations argued that while they support anti-fake news legislation, the bill’s current form is unacceptable.
They further stated that, as victims of fake news, they understand the need for regulation, but called for more precise and balanced legislation.
The session was attended by Senator Irfan Siddiqui, Senator Shahadat Awan, Senator Umar Farooq, Senator Kamran Murtaza, Senator Palwasha Khan and Senator Mir Dostain Hasan Domki.
