Journalists Protest in Peshawar Against PECA Amendments
Journalists Protest in Peshawar Against PECA Amendments
In Peshawar, Pakistan, journalists gathered to protest against changes to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), 2025. They demanded the government withdraw these amendments, which they believe restrict freedom of expression. The protest included media personnel, political party representatives, and business community members, all voicing their opposition to the amendments.
Khyber Union of Journalists president, Kashifuddin, criticized the amendments as an attempt to silence journalists. He vowed that protests would continue until the changes are revoked. Other journalists and press club leaders also spoke against the amendments and condemned the provincial government's actions against press club vice-president Irfan Khan.
Protests were not limited to Peshawar but also occurred in other districts like Lower and Upper Dir, Dera Ismail Khan, and South Waziristan. International journalistic bodies, including the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), have also opposed the amendments, stating they threaten digital expression and internet freedom. They urged President Asif Ali Zardari to reject the bill to protect freedom of expression.
Media advocacy groups like Reporters Without Borders and the Media Diversity Institute criticized the increased control over the press and internet, highlighting a decline in press freedom. The Forum for Digital Rights and Democracy expressed concern over the lack of consultation in passing the amendments, which they believe could harm free speech and democracy.
Doubts Revealed
Peshawar
Peshawar is a city in Pakistan. It is one of the oldest cities in the country and is known for its rich history and culture.
PECA
PECA stands for the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act. It is a law in Pakistan that deals with crimes committed using electronic devices like computers and the internet.
Amendments
Amendments are changes or additions made to a law or document. In this context, it refers to changes proposed to the PECA law.
Freedom of expression
Freedom of expression means the right to express one's ideas and opinions freely without fear of being punished. It is an important part of democracy.
Media personnel
Media personnel are people who work in the media industry, like journalists, reporters, and news anchors. They help in gathering and sharing news with the public.
International journalistic bodies
International journalistic bodies are organizations that support journalists and promote press freedom around the world. They work to protect the rights of journalists.
Media advocacy groups
Media advocacy groups are organizations that work to support and protect the rights of media and journalists. They often campaign for freedom of the press and against censorship.
Asif Ali Zardari
Asif Ali Zardari is a Pakistani politician who served as the President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013. He is a member of the Pakistan People's Party.
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