A faction of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has filed a petition in the Islamabad High Court against the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2025.
The petition filed by Advocate Imran Shafiq has argued that the law violates fundamental constitutional rights, especially freedom of expression, freedom of the press and due process of law.
The petitioner has argued that several provisions of the amended law have been implemented in an overly broad, vague and arbitrary manner, posing a threat to civil liberties.
Key objections include the vague definition of ‘social media platforms’, which can be applied to various online services, and provisions to regulate ‘illegal and offensive’ content, which can be used in a subjective and wrong manner.
The petition also raises concerns about restrictions on criticism and dissent.
Furthermore, the petition highlights the wide powers given to the regulatory authority under Chapter One A, particularly Sections 2C and 2B, which allow removal and blocking of online content without proper oversight.
The establishment of the Council and Tribunal under Sections 2(t) and 2(v) has been criticised for lacking independence and impartiality.
The petition further contends that the Amendment Act is in violation of the fundamental rights enshrined in Articles 2-4, 8, 10A, 14, 18-19A, 25, 33 and 37-38 of the Constitution.
The petition states that the Act has disproportionately affected journalists and media professionals, which may stifle press freedom and investigative reporting.
The petitioner has requested the court to declare PECA 2025 unconstitutional and void and has sought an immediate injunction to stop its implementation, especially against journalists.
