Arshad Mahmood Awan
Pakistan’s digital landscape has already been deeply impacted by the government’s approach to managing online spaces. Yet, instead of learning from past mistakes, the government seems intent on taking more drastic steps that could further harm the country’s digital aspirations. The introduction of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Bill, 2025, is a stark example of this misstep, as it seeks to deepen state control over digital platforms, restricting free expression while empowering authorities to suppress dissent.
The recently passed amendment, aimed at tightening control over online content, proposes penalties for those found guilty of spreading disinformation, including prison sentences of up to three years. This initiative also includes plans to replace the existing Cybercrime Wing of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) with a new body, further centralizing power within state authorities. Additionally, the bill proposes the creation of an authority with the ability to fully or partially block social media platforms that fail to comply with state regulations.
The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) has been controversial since its inception in 2016, with critics pointing out its misuse as a tool for stifling dissent. Over the past eight years, PECA has been widely criticized for being a “black law,” primarily designed to punish those who challenge state narratives, including politicians, journalists, and rights activists. The law has resulted in severe consequences for many individuals, from professional setbacks to psychological distress, but despite these abuses, the law has only expanded in scope, with little to no action taken to prevent its misuse.
This expansion of PECA, with amendments designed to increase the scope of state control over the digital space, is not surprising given the political history surrounding the law. Over the years, Pakistan’s major political parties have each played a role in either enacting or strengthening PECA, making it an increasingly powerful tool for government overreach. The bill’s focus on silencing critics of state institutions and their officials highlights the law’s true intention: to protect the vested interests of Pakistan’s political elite, rather than safeguarding public or national interests.
The dangers of this amendment are evident in its potential to be weaponized against ordinary citizens, journalists, and activists, who may face harassment and punishment for trivial reasons under the guise of preventing disinformation. Digital rights advocates have long pointed out the law’s shortcomings, arguing that it not only infringes on free speech but also emboldens those in power to intimidate and silence opposition.
In a country where the justice system is often ineffective, and where authorities have repeatedly shown a disregard for due process and human rights, the introduction of these amendments could lead to an even greater erosion of civil liberties. With a legal framework already prone to abuse, the risk that these amendments will be used to target political opponents or activists is high. The amendments grant authorities sweeping powers to police the digital space, but given the lack of checks and balances within the system, there is a real concern that these powers will be misused to settle political scores rather than address the genuine issues of disinformation and cybercrime.
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While the rise of social media has indeed introduced new challenges for governments, including the spread of disinformation and the potential for social unrest, the solution should not be to impose heavy-handed, authoritarian measures. PECA and its amendments are blunt tools that fail to address the root causes of instability in Pakistan’s digital environment. Rather than expanding the state’s ability to control online platforms and punish individuals, Pakistan should focus on fostering a healthy digital ecosystem where free speech is protected, and digital literacy is promoted to better navigate the complexities of modern communication.
The state must recognize that attempting to resolve its internal issues through online censorship and crackdowns will only exacerbate the country’s problems. Instead of turning to oppressive legal measures, the government should engage in dialogue with stakeholders, including digital rights groups, civil society, and media organizations, to find more balanced and constructive solutions. Empowering citizens to use digital platforms responsibly, enhancing media literacy, and developing robust legal frameworks for addressing disinformation without compromising fundamental rights should be the priority, rather than silencing voices that challenge the status quo.
Ultimately, the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Amendment Bill, 2025, marks a dangerous step backward for Pakistan’s digital freedom. Instead of addressing the challenges posed by the digital age through responsible governance, the government is choosing to further entrench its control over the online space, pushing the country into deeper authoritarianism. If this approach continues, Pakistan risks not only stifling innovation and free expression but also undermining its long-term political stability and international standing as a democratic nation.
In conclusion, the government’s approach to managing the digital ecosystem through the PECA amendments is both misguided and dangerous. While the spread of disinformation and the challenges posed by social media cannot be ignored, the solution lies in fostering an environment where digital rights are protected, and accountability is promoted through due process. If Pakistan is to realize its digital potential, it must learn to balance regulation with freedom, and governance with respect for human rights. Without such an approach, the country will only continue to suffer the consequences of policies that stifle growth, innovation, and freedom of expression.
