The Senate Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting has directed the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) not to take action under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) against newspapers, their digital editions, websites, or television channels over published news reports.
The committee said existing media regulatory bodies should handle complaints involving news organizations instead of the NCCIA.
Committee Refers Media Complaints to Press Council and PEMRA
The meeting, chaired by Senator Sarmad Ali, concluded that complaints against newspapers should go to the Press Council of Pakistan.
Similarly, the committee said Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) should deal with complaints related to television channels.
Members also directed the complainant in the case under discussion to approach the Press Council instead of seeking action under PECA.
Senator Sarmad Ali said lawmakers had received assurances when Parliament passed PECA that authorities would not use the law against newspapers or the digital platforms of television channels.
Committee Discusses Journalist’s Column
The committee also reviewed a case involving a journalist who used the word “Bureaucrapt” while referring to bureaucrats.
NCCIA officials informed members that the newspaper had removed the column from its website. However, the same content remained available on social media.
Senator Pervaiz Rashid said the newspaper’s decision to remove the article suggested it considered the content inappropriate.
However, he added that its continued presence on social media exposed legal uncertainty.
He said Parliament should either repeal PECA or amend the law to remove confusion.
NCCIA officials clarified that they had only issued a notice and had not registered any criminal case.
Journalists Raise Legal and Welfare Concerns
National Press Club President Abdul Razzaq Syal told the committee that journalists often face legal action despite publishing verified reports.
He stressed the need to clearly distinguish between digital editions of newspapers and social media platforms when applying the law.
The committee also discussed issues related to journalists’ housing and health benefits.
Members formed a three-member subcommittee to review the long-pending housing quota for journalists.
The committee recommended restoring the two percent housing quota, resolving health card issues, and including media workers in the prime minister’s loan scheme.
The recommendations aim to improve both legal protections and welfare support for journalists across Pakistan.
