Senate panel okays PECA amendment bill

Concerns raised over vague terms like "fake news" in the newly approved PECA bill.

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The Senate Standing Committee on Interior has approved amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), despite strong objections from journalist organisations and media bodies.

According to Express News, the meeting, chaired by Senator Faisal Saleem, saw the committee passing the PECA amendment bill.

During the session, journalist organisations voiced their opposition to the bill, criticising the lack of clarity in its provisions and expressing concerns about its potential impact.

The committee chairman questioned why journalist organisations did not submit their written recommendations, stating that they should have formally presented their suggestions to the committee.

During the meeting, Senator Irfan Siddiqui remarked, “In this country, there’s no need for a law to put someone in handcuffs. I was arrested under the rental law myself.” Senator Kamran Murtaza also opposed the bill during the session. Despite this, the committee moved forward and approved the amendment.

The Interior Secretary defended the bill, stating it aims to protect the public. He added that the bill, as passed by the National Assembly, would only be approved in its existing form.

Senator Irfan Siddiqui pointed out that agreements on certain amendments had been reached during meetings between the Minister of Information and journalists. He questioned whether the Ministry of Interior intended to include additional amendments to the bill passed by the National Assembly.

The Anchorpersons Association raised objections during the session, stating they were not given adequate time to provide their suggestions.

Journalist organisations criticised the bill, highlighting its vague definition of “fake news.” They argued that the bill could create more problems rather than solving existing ones.

Journalist organisations maintained that while they support legislation against fake news, the current form of the bill is unacceptable.

They further stated that as victims of fake news themselves, they understand the need for regulation but called for more precise and balanced legislation.

The session was attended by Senator Irfan Siddiqui, Senator Shahadat Awan, Senator Umar Farooq, Senator Kamran Murtaza, Senator Palwasha Khan, and Senator Mir Dostain Hasan Domki.