The Senate on Tuesday approved the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Peca) (Amendment) Bill 2025 and the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2024, aimed at fostering a digital society, economy, and governance. The session, however, was marked by heated protests and walkouts from opposition members and journalists.
The Peca Amendment Bill, introduced by Rana Tanveer Hussain, faced strong criticism from opposition parties. Awami National Party (ANP) leader Aimal Wali Khan called the bill a “draconian law” that curtails freedom of speech. “The bill smells of boots,” he remarked, before leading a walkout with other ANP members.
Journalists also staged a walkout from the Senate gallery in protest as the bill was presented for approval. Leader of the Opposition in the Senate, Shibli Faraz, criticized the government for bypassing consultation on the Peca amendments. “It is our job to legislate, but this law is being passed without consulting those it concerns,” he said. Opposition members gathered in front of the Senate deputy chairman’s dais to voice their objections.
Digital Nation Pakistan Bill Approved Despite Opposition
The Senate also approved the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2024, tabled by Federal Minister for Law Azam Nazeer Tarar. The bill was passed clause by clause, despite opposition demands for a debate. JUI-F Senator Kamran Murtaza proposed amendments to the bill, arguing that it interferes with provincial jurisdiction. However, his amendments were rejected after opposition from the law minister.
Opposition members, including those from PTI and ANP, staged a protest in front of the chairman’s dais, accusing the government of “bulldozing the bills.” Shibli Faraz expressed frustration over the lack of consultation, saying the government was rushing legislation without proper deliberation.
Heated Exchanges in the Senate
The session grew tense when Senator Falak Naz Chitrali made sharp remarks toward the Senate secretary. The deputy chairman warned her to return to her seat, threatening action if she did not comply. Chitrali responded by accusing the deputy chairman of threatening her.
