The Purpose of Introducing the PECA Bill is to Silence Social Media: Zartaj Gul

The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Interior approved the controversial PECA Amendment Bill amidst strong opposition from opposition members.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) MNA Zartaj Gul stated that the bill is being passed in haste, and its purpose is to suppress social media.

She said such urgency is only seen for draconian laws, and individuals acting against the state are enemies to everyone.

Zartaj Gul further commented that the penalties proposed in the PECA Amendment Bill are excessively harsh and will affect many people.

Committee Chairman Raja Khurram Nawaz remarked that several people are promoting anti-state narratives on social media.

Hanif Abbasi said that social media cannot be left unchecked, as it has become a platform where the dignity of mothers and sisters is being violated.

He cited the example of fake videos of Maryam Nawaz being used for propaganda.

MQM MNA Khawaja Izhar-ul-Hassan noted that there is no clear definition of journalists in the country.

Abdul Qadir Patel opposed the bill, stating that it is being passed in haste and that everyone knows the mindset behind its creation.

Jamshed Dasti criticized the introduction of draconian laws in the country, pointing out that the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) is also complicit in this act.

Agha Rafiullah supported the PECA Amendment Bill but mentioned that the penalties are severe. He added that fake news is causing conflicts, even leading to murders.

Following the opposition’s walkout, government members of the committee hurriedly passed the bill.