ISLAMABAD: The President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, has approved the controversial Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) Amendment Bill, 2025.
Alongside this, the President also gave approval to the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2025, aimed at modernizing the country’s digital infrastructure and advancing technological progress. Additionally, the President endorsed the National Commission on the Status of Women Bill, which seeks to strengthen efforts to promote women's rights and address gender-based issues in Pakistan.
On January 28, the Senate passed the PECA Amendments Bill 2025, after it was moved in the upper house of Parliament following approval by the Senate Standing Committee on Interior. The bill was approved despite strong opposition from journalist organizations. Federal Minister for Industries and Production, Rana Tanveer Hussain, moved the bill on behalf of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
Rana Tanveer Hussain explained that the PECA Amendment Bill 2025 aims to address issues related to social media. He reassured that the bill is not directed against journalists in television and print media, emphasizing that opposition parties had been engaged in discussions through standing committees in both the National Assembly and Senate.
However, the PECA Amendment Bill 2025 has faced legal challenges. A petition has been filed in the Lahore High Court (LHC) arguing that the bill violates freedom of speech. The petitioner claims the bill was approved without consulting key stakeholders, including journalists' unions. The bill includes harsh penalties, including up to three years in prison and fines. The court has been asked to declare the PECA Amendment Bill 2025 null and void.
