Amid protests from the opposition, NA adopts the PECA modification bill.

ISLAMABAD (The Post) : The Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Bill 2025, commonly referred to as the PECA bill, was approved by the National Assembly on Thursday by a majority vote.

Since the opposition parties had already staged a walkout, the amended bill was adopted just minutes after it was introduced by Federal Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain.

Additionally, journalists protested the passing of the law by staging a walkout from the press gallery.

The purpose of the measure is to control internet material and social media in the nation.

The bill states that the Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), a new body, would be created to control online material and safeguard consumers’ digital rights.

The DRPA will have the authority to take action against those who distribute such materials, prevent access to illegal or pornographic information, and delete content from the internet.

Along with defining social media platforms, the law also lists websites, apps, and methods of communication. In addition to guaranteeing consumers’ online safety and security, the DRPA will be in charge of advancing digital literacy, research, and social media platforms.

Additionally, the body would have the power to register social media sites and establish guidelines for how they can operate in Pakistan.

Additionally, the measure adds additional sanctions for disseminating misleading material online, such as a Rs2 million fine and a three-year jail term.

In order to judge issues pertaining to online material, a Social Media Protection Tribunal will be formed. Cases must be decided by the tribunal within ninety days.

In order to look into cybercrime incidents, the law also calls for the creation of a National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency.

Journalists and other critics have opposed the bill’s approval, claiming it will limit free speech and provide the government undue authority to filter internet material.