The Senate Interior Committee approved amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), despite strong objections from journalist organizations and media outlets.
According to NewsThe meeting, chaired by Senator Faisal Saleem, saw the committee pass the PECA Amendment Bill.
During the session, journalists’ organizations expressed opposition to the bill, criticizing the lack of clarity in its provisions and expressing concerns about its potential impact.
The committee chair asked why the journalists’ organizations had not submitted their written recommendations, saying they should have formally presented their suggestions to the committee.
During the meeting, Senator Irfan Siddiqui remarked, “In this country, there is no need for a law to make someone lie. I myself have been arrested under the Tenancy Act. » Senator Kamran Murtaza also opposed the bill during the session. Despite this, the Committee moved forward and approved the amendment.
The interior secretary defended the bill, saying it aims to protect the public. He added that the bill, admitted by the National Assembly, would only be approved in its existing form.
Senator Irfan Siddiqui pointed out that agreements on certain amendments were reached during the meetings between the Information Minister and Journalists. He asked whether the Interior Ministry intended to include additional amendments to the bill passed by the National Assembly.
The Anchorpersons Association raised objections during the session, stating that they had not had sufficient time to provide their suggestions.
Journalists’ organizations criticized the bill, pointing to its vague definition of “fake news.” They argued that the bill could create more problems rather than solving existing ones.
Journalists’ organizations have argued that while they support anti-fake news legislation, the current form of the bill is unacceptable.
They further stated that as victims of fake news themselves, 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.
