PFUJ Challenges Peca 2025 in Islamabad High Court Over Press Freedom Concerns
A faction of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has filed a petition in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) challenging the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act (Peca), 2025, arguing that it infringes upon fundamental constitutional rights, including freedom of expression, press freedom, and due process. Read more
Petition Claims Amendments Violate Fundamental Rights and Stifle Free Speech
ISLAMABAD: A faction of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has filed a petition in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) challenging the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act (Peca), 2025, arguing that it infringes upon fundamental constitutional rights, including freedom of expression, press freedom, and due process.
The petition, submitted by Advocate Imran Shafique, contends that several provisions of Peca 2025 are overly broad, vague, and susceptible to arbitrary enforcement, posing a serious threat to civil liberties.
Key Objections Raised in the Petition
???? Vague and Ambiguous Language: The definition of “social media platforms” is unclear and could be misused to target various online services.
???? Crackdown on Dissent: Provisions regulating "unlawful and offensive" content are subjective and open to abuse, potentially silencing criticism and dissent.
???? Excessive Powers to Regulators: Under Chapter 1-A, Sections 2C and 2B, authorities can remove and block online content without adequate oversight, raising concerns about censorship and lack of accountability.
???? Lack of Independence in Tribunal System: The formation of councils and tribunals (Sections 2T and 2V) has been criticized for lacking impartiality, undermining justice and due process.
???? Contradiction with Constitutional Rights: The petition argues that the law violates multiple constitutional provisions, including Articles 2-4, 8, 10A, 14, 18, 19A, 25, 33, and 37-38, which protect freedom of speech, press freedom, and legal due process.
???? Targeting Journalists and Media: The petition claims that Peca 2025 could be used to suppress investigative journalism, restrict press freedom, and limit public access to critical information.
PFUJ Seeks Court Intervention
The PFUJ petition urges the Islamabad High Court to declare Peca 2025 unconstitutional and void. It also calls for an immediate injunction to prevent the law’s enforcement, particularly against journalists and media professionals.
The case has sparked widespread concern among media organizations, digital rights activists, and civil society, who fear that the amendments could be weaponized against independent voices in Pakistan.
The IHC is expected to hear the case soon, with legal experts anticipating a landmark ruling on digital freedoms and press rights.
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