HRCP’s Round Table Conference in Islamabad Discusses Punjab Defamation Act

On June 29, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) held a round table conference in Islamabad to discuss concerns about the Punjab Defamation Act. The HRCP urged the administration to repeal the act, which was introduced to curb fake news but is seen by many as a threat to press freedom and free speech.

During the event, Law and Policy Expert Muhammad Aftab Alam highlighted the need for changes in the definitions of key terms like ‘broadcasting’, ‘newspaper’, and ‘journalist’. Journalist and researcher Adnan Rehmat criticized the law for favoring political and state elites and legalizing discrimination.

HRCP member Farhatullah Babar warned that the law could lead to increased militarization of the state and society. Sadaf Khan, co-founder of Media Matters for Democracy (MMFD), expressed concerns about a potential national firewall that could expand censorship by monitoring Internet traffic.

Academic and journalist Tauseef Ahmed Khan discussed the history of censorship in media and proposed a plan of action. Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists president Afzal Butt emphasized the need for civil society to hold social media platforms accountable for blocking content on sensitive issues like Kashmir and Gaza.

Former senator Afrasiab Khattak called for accountability of the establishment for its overreach. Senior journalist Sohail Sangi linked press freedom to the working conditions of media persons. The participants recommended repealing the Punjab Defamation Act and recognizing digital rights in the Constitution. They also called for amending the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 and passing a law against enforced disappearances.

HRCP co-chair Munizae Jahangir and vice-chair Nasreen Azhar stressed the importance of unity among journalists, lawyers, and activists. HRCP secretary-general Harris Khalique concluded by highlighting the need for a charter of demands to be presented to the Parliament.