Journalists in PoGB protest 'PECA' law, warn of risks to free speech
Journalists Protest Against New Law in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan
In Skardu, Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan (PoGB), journalists and human rights activists are raising their voices against the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2025. They argue that this law threatens media freedom and free speech. A protest was organized by Afzal, president of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists, in front of the Skardu Press Club. Protesters called the law a "black law" that undermines democracy and silences critical voices.
In a video shared by Pamir Times, protesters highlighted that the act infringes on the fundamental right of freedom of expression and could lead to censorship. They expressed concerns that the law's broad powers might be used to silence critical journalism. One protester stated, "We are not willing to comply with oppressive laws. This law is a direct attack on the free voice of journalists." Another protester mentioned that this is part of a broader attempt to control social media, which started with a similar law in 2018.
Protesters emphasized that the issue affects society as a whole, not just journalists. "Without freedom of expression, there can be no societal progress or democratic development," one speaker said, urging collective action against the "black law." In PoGB, the government's neglect is evident in other areas too, with protests over poor education, crumbling infrastructure, inadequate healthcare, and arrests of journalists, highlighting a governance crisis and struggle for basic freedoms.
Doubts Revealed
Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan
Gilgit Baltistan is a region that is part of the larger Kashmir area. It is currently administered by Pakistan, but India also claims it as part of its territory.
Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2025
This is a law in Pakistan that aims to control crimes committed using electronic devices, like computers and phones. However, some people believe it can be used to unfairly limit what journalists can say or write.
Media freedom
Media freedom means that journalists can report news and express opinions without being controlled or punished by the government. It is important for a healthy democracy.
Free speech
Free speech is the right to say what you think without being stopped or punished by the government. It is a fundamental right in many countries.
Censorship
Censorship is when the government or another authority limits what people can see, hear, or say, often to control information or suppress ideas.
Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists
This is an organization in Pakistan that represents journalists and works to protect their rights and interests.
Afzal
Afzal is the president of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists, and he is leading the protest against the new law.
Investigative reporting
Investigative reporting is a type of journalism where reporters deeply investigate a single topic, often to uncover hidden truths or expose wrongdoing.
Governance issues
Governance issues refer to problems in the way a region or country is managed or governed, which can affect how laws are made and enforced.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *