Fri Jan 24 04:54:15 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan Passes Controversial Social Media Bill Amid Freedom of Speech Concerns

**ISLAMABAD, January 24, 2025** – Pakistan’s parliament passed a sweeping new law granting the government extensive control over social media, sparking immediate outrage from critics who claim it will further stifle freedom of speech. The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, passed Thursday, allows authorities to block content deemed “unlawful and offensive,” including criticism of the government, judiciary, or military. The law also criminalizes the spread of disinformation, punishable by three years imprisonment and a hefty fine.

The bill’s passage followed a walkout by opposition lawmakers from the party of imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who remains a highly popular figure on social media. Khan’s party alleges the recent election was rigged and utilizes social media for mobilization. His supporters frequently use platforms like X (formerly Twitter), which remains blocked in Pakistan despite the widespread use of VPNs to circumvent restrictions.

The new law establishes a Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority with the power to order immediate content takedowns and platform bans for non-compliance. Human rights activist Farhatullah Babar described the legislation as a tool to “further stifle the freedom of expression,” highlighting concerns about the expansive powers granted to the executive and intelligence agencies.

Journalists’ unions and news editors vehemently rejected the bill, echoing concerns expressed by opposition leader Omar Ayub Khan that the law could suppress voices advocating for constitutional rights. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar defended the bill, claiming it aims to curb disinformation and hate speech, while maintaining that it does not target journalists or electronic media.

However, critics point to a pattern of increasing censorship in Pakistani media, including alleged pressure on journalists to avoid mentioning Imran Khan by name. The timing of the bill’s passage, nearly a year after the blocking of X, further fuels concerns about its true intentions. Despite strong opposition, the government’s majority ensures the law’s implementation.

Read More