SWAT: Lawyers and human rights activists on Saturday flayed the government over the passage of the ‘controversial’ Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2025, and accused the ruling parties of attempting to suppress the people’s basic right of freedom of expression.

They were speaking at a seminar organised by the Swat Press Club in collaboration with non-government organisation – The Awakening – to discuss the controversial Peca laws.

The event highlighted concerns over the government’s efforts to amend the Peca, which they argued threatened citizens’ fundamental right to freedom of expression as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan.

“The freedom of expression is a basic right for every citizen according to the Constitution of Pakistan. However, the ruling class is attempting to suppress this right by altering Peca,” said Irfan Hussain Babak, the NGO director.

He urged the government to reconsider the amendment, asserting that the law would infringe upon the rights of ordinary citizens.

Echoing these sentiments, Niaz Ahmad Khan, the press club president, also expressed his concern, stating, “This amendment represents an attack on basic human rights and the freedom of expression. The government must reflect on the negative consequences this could have on society.”

Human rights lawyer Shaukat Saleem further elaborated on the constitutional history of freedom of expression, stating, “Not only human rights organisations but also journalistic groups have declared this amendment unconstitutional. We have approached the higher courts in this regard.” He added that under the new amendment, individuals found guilty of broadcasting false news could face imprisonment for up to three years and a fine of up to Rs2 million.

SP investigations Badshah Hazrat Khan also commented on the issue, remarking, “Laws are created by the state when the need arises. Both citizens and media representatives must ensure that facts and evidences are presented transparently and responsibly.”

At the conclusion of the seminar, members of the press club staged a demonstration against the Peca Amendment Act, 2025, carrying banners and chanting slogans demanding of the government to withdraw the law.

Published in Dawn, February 9th, 2025