Media bodies reject PECA

JournalismPakistan.com | Published 3 years ago

ISLAMABAD - The media Joint Action Committee (JAC) has outrightly rejected the draconian amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), saying it is a flagrant move to undermine the freedom of the press, speech and defiant voices in the country.

The JAC comprises All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS), Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) and Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND).

“All media bodies would take any and all legal actions to challenge the attempt to curb media’s independence and its right to raise voice against any steps to curb freedom of expression as guaranteed in the Constitution,” the JAC statement said.

President of Pakistan Dr. Arif Alvi signed the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) Amendment Bill on Sunday.

Explore Further

Tarar says Rs86 crore worth of government ads given to Dawn Media Group

December 20, 2025: Information Minister Attaullah Tarar says the government allocated 86 crore in ads to Dawn Media Group, stressing transparency and that media groups manage employee payments.

Islamabad court grants post-arrest bail to journalist Sohrab Barkat

December 19, 2025: Islamabad court approves post-arrest bail for journalist Sohrab Barkat in a case linked to controversial videos and tweets filed by the National Cyber Crime Agency.

JournalismPakistan cofounder Stephen Webb releases Dusk memoir

December 19, 2025: JournalismPakistan cofounder Stephen Webb releases Dusk, a poetic memoir blending memory and myth, reflecting on Punjab villages, faith, and belonging shaped by decades in journalism.

Pakistan minister flags AI impact on advertising jobs

December 18, 2025: Pakistan’s information minister warns AI is disrupting advertising jobs and invites proposals to protect creative professionals, signaling an early policy debate on AI and employment.

PTI announces boycott of select TV anchors and talk shows

December 18, 2025: Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf announces a boycott of several prominent TV anchors and talk shows, directing party leaders and spokespersons to avoid appearing on the listed programs.

Pakistan to launch BEEP secure messaging app for officials

December 17, 2025: Pakistan plans to launch the BEEP secure messaging app for government officials by June 2026, modeled on WeChat, with end-to-end encryption and oversight by NITB.

GTV News confers vice president title on Gharidah Farooqi

December 17, 2025: GTV News announces the ceremonial appointment of senior anchor Gharidah Farooqi as Vice President, citing her professionalism, credibility, and contributions to Pakistani television journalism.

Court reserves decision on Matiullah Jan narcotics charges

December 17, 2025: Islamabad court reserves decision on journalist Matiullah Jan’s request to drop narcotics charges, with defense citing lack of evidence and prosecutors opposing the plea.

Newsroom

When journalists move from the newsroom to the boardroom

December 20, 2025 A reflective analysis on how journalists moving from the newsroom to the boardroom face cultural, emotional, and ethical shifts while balancing management duties and journalistic values.

Bangkok leads global pact against online scams with tech partners

December 20, 2025 Thailand hosts a global initiative in Bangkok to combat online scams, bringing together governments and tech platforms, including Meta and TikTok, to enhance cross-border cooperation and public protection efforts.

UK editors warn against plan to cut Downing Street briefings

December 20, 2025 UK editors warn that plans to reduce daily Downing Street briefings could weaken press scrutiny and democratic accountability, raising concerns over access and transparency.

Bangladesh unrest escalates as Dhaka newsrooms remain shut

December 19, 2025 Bangladesh protests continued Friday after attacks on major Dhaka newsrooms, forcing media shutdowns and evacuations, raising press freedom concerns ahead of the 2026 elections.

Israeli journalists rally against proposed media restrictions

December 19, 2025 Israeli journalists convene in Tel Aviv to oppose proposed government measures they warn could undermine press freedom, media independence, and the operating environment for newsrooms.