HRCP condemns arrest of Karachi journalist under PECA

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 9 January 2026 |  JP Staff Report

HRCP has demanded the release of Karachi journalist Aslam Shah, arrested by the NCCIA under PECA after a complaint by a KWSB official. The commission and press groups say the detention threatens press freedom and chills investigative reporting.

Summary

KARACHI — The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has demanded the immediate release of journalist Syed Mohammed Aslam Shah, who was recently taken into custody by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency under the controversial Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2025. HRCP called the detention “a direct attack on press freedom” and said it underscores the risks faced by journalists covering sensitive civic issues in Pakistan. The commission voiced solidarity with the Karachi Union of Journalists and criticized the use of PECA to suppress critical voices.

Shah was arrested following a complaint lodged by Tabish Raza Husnain, a civil servant associated with the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board, alleging that Shah posted defamatory and abusive content against him and a senior official on social media. After a magistrate denied the NCCIA’s request for investigative custody, Shah was placed on judicial remand. His reporting has focused on municipal governance, water distribution, and civic accountability in Karachi.

Concerns over press freedom

Press freedom groups and local journalist unions have strongly condemned the detention, saying it represents a broader pattern of harassment against media professionals. They warn that criminalising criticism under PECA creates a chilling effect on investigative reporting and undermines the democratic role of the press. Legal experts note that while PECA includes provisions to prevent cyber harassment and defamation, its broad application to journalists raises concerns over procedural fairness and proportionality.

Legal and civil implications

Human rights advocates emphasize that disputes over reputational issues are generally civil matters and should not lead to criminal charges against reporters. They have urged authorities to ensure due process and to protect freedom of expression, particularly in cases involving scrutiny of public institutions. International journalism organizations have also highlighted the case as part of a concerning trend of legal pressures on media workers in Pakistan.

ATTRIBUTION: HRCP statement and Karachi-based press associations.

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