Senate’s Approval of Peca Amendments Sparks Nationwide Protests Over Free Speech Concerns

The Senate’s approval of controversial amendments to Pakistan’s Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) has sparked protests nationwide. The amendments introduce penalties for spreading “fake news” online, which critics, including journalists and opposition parties, view as a threat to free speech. Media workers and rights groups argue the legislation could target journalists, dissidents, and critics of state institutions. The bill now awaits presidential assent to become law. Protests have been organized across major cities, with calls for government reconsideration.