The recently passed PECA Amendment Act 2025 has come under legal scrutiny as journalist Jafar Bin Yar filed a petition in the Lahore High Court on Wednesday, challenging the controversial legislation. The petition, submitted through lawyer Nadeem Sarwar, names the federal government, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and other relevant parties as respondents.
The petitioner argued that the amendments, particularly those imposing penalties for “fake news,” pose a serious threat to the constitutional right to free speech. He further contended that the amendments undermine the right to freedom of expression guaranteed by the Constitution and were introduced without adequate consultation with key stakeholders, including journalist organizations.
The petition calls on the Lahore High Court to declare the PECA Amendment Act 2025 null and void and to suspend any proceedings under the law until a final verdict is reached.
The PECA Amendment Act 2025, presented in the National Assembly on January 22, has drawn widespread criticism for its provisions aimed at combating online misinformation. Under Section 26(A) of the amendment, individuals found guilty of intentionally spreading false information on social media to incite fear or insecurity could face up to three years in prison, a fine of up to two million rupees, or both.
The legislation also proposes the creation of a Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority, tasked with overseeing and regulating social media platforms. This authority will have the power to register or deregister platforms, enforce content standards, and protect users’ rights. It will also be authorized to take action against illegal content, requiring its removal within 24 hours of identification.
The authority will consist of nine members, including officials from the PTA and PEMRA, as well as a journalist with at least 10 years of experience. Additionally, the bill establishes a Social Media Protection Tribunal, chaired by a former High Court judge, to handle disputes and enforce the law.
