ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court on Tuesday issued a notice to the Attorney General for Pakistan regarding judicial assistance in petitions challenging amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), as journalists plan to launch a hunger strike outside newsrooms in protest of the controversial law.
The petitioners’ lawyers have called on the court to suspend the implementation of the amendments. Presiding Judge Justice Inam Ameen Minhas stated, “If there are any issues, please let us know; we are here,” adding that the court was notifying the Attorney General about the request to declare certain provisions of the law “null and void.”
The petitioners’ lawyer emphasized the need to halt the law’s implementation, urging the court to suspend it. Justice Minhas confirmed that the notice had been issued and the matter would be reviewed in the next hearing, which has been postponed.
On Monday, journalists announced plans to begin a hunger strike, describing the amended law as a “black law.” They have expressed concerns over the lack of consultation before the amendments were made.
President Asif Ali Zardari approved major changes to the country’s cybercrime laws on January 29, despite opposition from journalists and media organizations. This followed the Senate’s approval of the amendments to PECA 2016, which sparked protests among media workers across the nation.
Journalists have condemned the amendments as an attack on free speech, while the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party criticized the swift passage of the bill. The Pakistan Peoples Party, facing criticism for supporting the bill, has suggested further revisions may be made to address journalists’ concerns.
The PECA Amendment Bill, 2025, which was presented to the National Assembly on January 22, includes the introduction of Section 26(A), which penalizes individuals found guilty of spreading “fake news” online. Those convicted could face up to three years in prison, a fine of up to Rs2 million, or both.
Under the new law, the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority will have its headquarters in Islamabad, with offices in provincial capitals. The authority will have the power to regulate social media platforms, set standards, and ensure user protection. It can also take disciplinary action against platforms and instruct relevant agencies to remove illegal content. Individuals affected by illegal activities on social media must submit complaints within 24 hours.
