Pakistan Journalists Challenge Peca Law in Court

The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has filed a lawsuit in the Islamabad High Court against the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2025, known as the Peca law. PFUJ President Afzal Butt, through Advocate Imran Shafique, argues that the act threatens media freedom. The law, passed quickly by the National Assembly and Senate, has been criticized for expanding government control and limiting free speech.

The PFUJ claims the Peca law violates Articles 19 and 19(A) of the Constitution, which protect freedom of speech. The law grants the government extensive censorship powers and criminalizes fake news without due process. Shafique highlighted the lack of clear procedures for handling misinformation, allowing police to arrest individuals under vague charges.

The law introduces new definitions, regulatory bodies, and stricter penalties for spreading false information. It includes fines up to Rs2 million and a three-year prison term for disseminating fake news. The amendments propose the creation of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency, the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority, and the Social Media Protection Tribunal.

Additionally, the law allows individuals affected by false information to request its removal or access blocking within 24 hours. Social media platforms may be required to register with the authority and pay fees. The PFUJ seeks a judicial review, arguing the law infringes on digital and international human rights.