Media and Journalist Bodies Unite Against Proposed Defamation Bill in Punjab and Digital Regulation Bills
Media stakeholders and journalist associations across Pakistan have raised serious concerns about recent legislative proposals concerning defamation and digital regulation. The Joint Action Committee (JAC), which includes the Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA), All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS), Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), and Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND), has been vocal against the Punjab Defamation Bill 2024 and the federal government’s proposed ‘Digital Media Authority’. The JAC stressed that the current form of these bills threatens fundamental rights to freedom of expression and calls for detailed consultations with all stakeholders to ensure laws protect individual rights while upholding principles of freedom.
The PFUJ has specifically condemned the federal and Punjab governments for attempting to impose what they describe as fascist laws that could severely restrict journalists’ abilities to perform their duties and report on government wrongdoings. The union has criticized the vague definitions and harsh penalties included in the proposed defamation bill, comparing its severity to past oppressive measures by authoritarian regimes.
The Lahore Press Club (LPC), led by President Arshad Ansari, opposed the Punjab government’s efforts to enact the Defamation Law 2024, viewing it as a regressive measure aimed at muzzling journalistic freedom. The LPC has called upon political parties and fellow journalist organizations to stand united against this law and to devise strategies to combat such draconian legislation. They emphasize the importance of fostering meaningful legislation through bipartisan consultation, which is vital for a thriving democracy.
In a statement, Pakistan Press Foundation highlighted the lack of clarity, transparency, and consultation in the drafting and approval of these regulations, pointing out the potential for misuse against journalists and media professionals. They have expressed concerns about the proposed establishment of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency and the Digital Rights Protection Authority, questioning the necessity for multiple regulatory bodies in the digital sphere.
PPF urged the government to maintain transparency in the functioning of new regulatory bodies and to ensure the defamation law does not stifle free speech. They called for meaningful consultations with relevant stakeholders before any further amendments or legislation are passed.
Digital Rights Protection Authority
On May 9, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved a draft to amend the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016, under which the Digital Rights Protection Authority would be set up. The digital protection authority will have a broad scope of responsibilities, including advice to the government on digital rights, enforcing regulations, investigating violations of the PECA law on social media, taking action against those who are in violation, “demand information” for individuals and others.
Punjab defamation law
On May 13, the Punjab Defamation Bill 2024 was presented at the provincial Punjab Assembly without stakeholder consultations. Under the law, fines can be imposed and social media accounts can be blocked of those found to be spreading defamatory content.
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