In a challenge to revisions to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), 2025, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has sent notices to the Ministry of Law and Justice. Famous newscasters, including Hamid Mir and Naseem Zahra, have petitioned the government, claiming that the recent amendments were passed without proper consultation and in violation of their constitutional rights.
The petitioners, who are represented by the president and legal team of the IHC Bar Association, claim that the revisions go against important constitutional principles that safeguard basic rights, such as freedom of speech and press (Articles 19 and 19-A). Additionally, they argue that the law goes against global human rights documents like the Universal Declaration.
Petitioners further state that digital platforms and their users will be harmed by the changes’ unclear language, inconsistent definitions, and expedited approval procedure. The court took note of these concerns and ordered the parties involved, including Pakistan’s attorney general, to answer in full within two weeks.
There has to be more examination of legislative processes that affect basic rights since this court challenge brings up important considerations about how to balance cybersecurity rules with people’s liberties.
