Media Groups Demand Senate Hearing on PECA

The Joint Action Committee (JAC), comprising prominent media organizations in Pakistan, has requested a hearing with the Senate Standing Committee on Interior before it deliberates on the recently amended Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca).

These amendments, introduced without prior consultation, were passed by the National Assembly as part of a supplementary agenda, raising concerns among media stakeholders. The JAC’s letter to Senator Faisal Saleem Rahman emphasized the importance of addressing its “serious concerns” about the bill, which could potentially restrict press freedom and limit constitutionally protected rights like freedom of expression.

The committee also criticized the rushed nature of the #amendments, stating that the lack of stakeholder engagement undermines trust and transparency. While acknowledging the need for media regulation in line with democratic principles, the JAC stressed the importance of an #inclusive process to ensure balanced and fair legislation.

The JAC includes key media organizations such as the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS), Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND), and Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA).

This coalition is urging lawmakers to take a more collaborative approach to safeguard press freedoms while addressing regulatory concerns.