Karachi: January 23, 2025: The Joint Action Committee has out rightly
rejected the controversial PECA act amendment bill. JAC announced its
decision to approach the court of law against the bill and also to launch a protest
movement. A special meeting of the journalist organizations’ Joint Action
Committee, which includes the PFUJ, PBA, CPNE, AEMEND, and APNS, was
held, during which it was stated that the federal government had breached its
promise by getting the controversial bill passed in the National Assembly
without consultation. The focus of this bill is not just social media, but also
electronic and print media’s digital platforms, with the aim of criminalizing
dissenting opinions. However, if the government still wishes to consult
stakeholders, the presentation of this controversial bill in the Senate must be
postponed. Otherwise, the JAC will begin its protest plan. In case the bill is
presented in the Senate, there will be protests not only during the session but
also a nationwide call for demonstrations. A large protest rally will be held in
Islamabad, in which all journalist organizations will participate. Lawyers,
human rights organizations, civil society, and political parties will also be
invited to join the protests. The Joint Action Committee has also decided to
challenge the PECA Act amendment bill in court of law after its final approval,
and consultations with lawyers have already begun. The Joint Action Committee
reiterated that while the journalist organizations are not against any law, they
cannot accept legislation made unilaterally without consultation.
ADVERTISEMENT
