In Pakistan, the National Assembly has passed a controversial amendment to the country’s cybercrime laws despite a walkout by journalists and opposition lawmakers. The Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Bill 2025 introduces stricter regulations for social media and harsher penalties for spreading misinformation online.

Passing the Bill in the National Assembly

“Electronic Crimes Amendment Bill 2025. Now I put the motion to the house. It has been moved that the bill further to amend the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016, the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Bill 2025, be passed. All those in favor say ‘Aye,’ all those against say ‘No.’ I think the motion is adopted, and consequently, the bill is passed. Item number…”

Key Provisions of the Amendment

The new provisions include a penalty of up to three years in prison or a fine of two million rupees for intentionally disseminating fake or false information likely to cause fear, unrest, or panic. Additionally, the bill establishes a Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority tasked with regulating platforms, blocking content, and addressing public complaints. The legislation also mandates that social media platforms register with the authority and comply with content removal requests within 24 hours if the material is deemed harmful or against Pakistan’s ideology.

Reactions from Journalists and Opposition

Journalists and civil society groups have expressed concerns over the bill’s impact on freedom of expression, staging a walkout during the session. The opposition party Jamaat-e-Islami (Fazl ur Rehman) also opposed the bill, while Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawmakers walked out earlier, protesting the incarceration of their party founder, Imran Khan.

Additional Legislation Passed

In addition to the cybercrime amendments, the Assembly passed the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2024, aimed at creating a centralized digital identity system to advance digital governance and the economy. The cybercrime law amendments have sparked debate over the balance between combating misinformation and preserving free speech in Pakistan.

Presentation of the Standing Committee Report

“Chairman of the Standing Committee on… to present the report of the Standing Committee on the bill further to amend the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016, the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Bill 2025. The report of the Standing Committee on the bill further to amend the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016, the Prevention of Crimes Bill 2025, stands presented on behalf of the Minister of Interior.”