Islamabad (Web Desk): The National Assembly (NA) on Thursday passed a controversial set of amendments to the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), granting the government broader authority to monitor and regulate online content.
The new changes are being hailed by some as a necessary step to curb the spread of harmful material on the internet, but they have also ignited strong opposition, especially among journalists.
The Peca Act Amendment Bill 2024 was introduced by Federal Minister Rana Tanveer under a supplementary agenda. The include the creation of a new body called the Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA).
This body will have the power to remove online content considered unlawful, and it will be tasked with overseeing social media platforms, ensuring that they comply with government regulations.
The amendments also expand the definition of illegal online content, including material that promotes violence, hatred, defamation, or threatens national security.
Despite support from the ruling party, the bill has faced significant backlash. Journalists, in particular, have protested the amendments, arguing that the vague language could be used to silence critical voices and restrict press freedoms.
They fear that it could lead to government overreach, with the potential to censor content that challenges official narratives or highlights government shortcomings.
Another key aspect of the amendments is the introduction of harsher penalties for individuals found guilty of spreading false information or "fake news." Offenders could face up to three years in prison and fines of up to Rs20 million.
This provision has sparked concerns about the potential for abuse, particularly in a country where media freedoms are already under pressure.
Additionally, the bill proposes the establishment of a new social media tribunal to handle cases related to online crimes.
This tribunal would be expected to resolve cases quickly, within 90 days. The legislation also calls for the dissolution of the Federal Investigation Agency's Cyber Crime Wing, with its duties being transferred to a new agency focused on national cyber security.
Opposition leaders have raised alarms about the amendments, accusing the government of using the law as a tool to suppress dissent and limit freedom of expression in the digital sphere.
The government, however, insists that the changes are necessary to protect citizens from the dangers of unchecked online content, including misinformation that could destabilize the country.
As the bill now moves toward further consideration in the Senate, it is clear that the debate surrounding these amendments will continue.