Lahore (Web Desk): Acting Governor Punjab Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan signed the controversial Punjab Defamation Bill 2024 making it into law.
The bill that received criticism, particularly from journalists and digital rights activists, has been signed in absence of Punjab Governor Sardar Salim Khan who is on leave.
As per the sources, Speaker Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, who holds the charge as acting Punjab governor, signed the bill and then sent to the ministry of law, which will issue a notification soon, formally enacting the defamation law in Punjab.
On May 20, Punjab Assembly passed the Punjab Defamation Bill, 2024 amid a strong and noisy protest by the opposition as well as immense backlash from journalists and rights bodies including those based internationally.
The draft law proposes a special tribunal to try those involved in drafting, publishing and/or airing “fake news”. The tribunal shall decide the case within six months and may impose a fine of up to Rs3 million.
However, in cases of allegations against individuals holding constitutional posts, the high court will hear the cases.
The bill further says the government will provide legal assistance to women and transgender individuals in defamation cases through an official legal team.
