Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders have sharply criticized the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill, saying it undermines constitutional rights and sets a dangerous precedent for surveillance and control.
Speaking to the media, opposition leader Omar Ayub warned that the bill could target those who advocate constitutional supremacy.
Ayub highlighted the PTI’s protests against the bill in Parliament, saying the government has failed to address the opposition’s key concerns.
The Digital Nation Pakistan Bill includes provisions granting authorities broad access to citizens’ data.
Ayub alleged that the government is using the bill to suppress dissent and restrict freedoms under the guise of regulation.
“This is an attack on fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution,” he said.
Barr Gohar, another PTI leader, condemned the rushed legislative process, pointing out that several laws were passed in less than 10 minutes in just 88 parliamentary sessions in the past year. “This is the shortest legislative deadline in history,” he said.
PTI leaders also expressed concerns over alleged legal pressure and mistreatment of detained party members.
“The government promised to hold a meeting with the PTI founder, but is yet to fulfill its commitment,” Ayub said.
He also reiterated the party’s demand for the formation of an impartial commission to oversee critical issues.
Aamir Dogar noted that 700 protesters were recently transferred in inhumane conditions, with 500 detainees crammed into vans designed for far fewer numbers.
He demanded compliance with prison protocols for over 3,000 PTI supporters currently in custody.
Former minister Ali Muhammad Khan accused the judiciary of issuing politically motivated verdicts.
Referring to the conviction of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, he said, “Judges who avoid minor theft cases pass judgment on national leaders.”
Pakistan’s Digital Nation Bill, along with allegations of judicial bias and poor governance, have intensified public discontent.
PTI leaders have warned of worsening political tensions unless transparency and constitutional guarantees are prioritized.
