HRCP expresses concerns over passage of controversial PECA Amendment Bill

ISLAMABAD: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has raised serious concerns over the passage of the controversial Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) Amendment Bill 2025. The bill was passed by the National Assembly on Thursday, despite a walkout by lawmakers from the opposition party PTI and journalists in protest of the legislation.

In a statement issued on Saturday, HRCP urged for a comprehensive debate on the bill in the Senate. The commission expressed fears that the enforcement of the bill would lead to the targeting of journalists, as well as political and social activists. HRCP highlighted that the proposed legislation threatens to curtail fundamental human rights, with a particular focus on its provisions addressing “fake or false news.”

The human rights body further criticised the bill for proposing a three-year jail term for offenders, describing it as unnecessarily harsh and punitive. According to HRCP, this provision could severely impact free expression and the ability of individuals to voice their opinions without fear of legal repercussions.

The HRCP also raised alarm over the creation of four new authorities tasked with regulating digital content, warning that these agencies could impose disproportionate restrictions on online freedoms. The commission emphasised that these measures could significantly limit the scope of free speech and opinion in Pakistan.