The National Assembly Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting decided to establish a sub-committee to engage with journalists and address their concerns regarding the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).

The decision was announced during a meeting of the committee chaired by MNA Phullain Baloch. announced that the sub-committee will assess the issues raised by journalists and ensure their voices are heard. “We will sit down with journalists and listen to their grievances and solve them,” he assured.

Following the signing of the PECA amendment into law by President Asif Ali Zardari on January 29, journalists across Pakistan observed a “black day” on January 31. Demonstrations took place across all provinces.

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Atta Tarar stated that PECA is specifically designed to regulate digital media and will not affect newspapers or television channels, as existing laws already govern them. He also mentioned that the government is working on creating a Digital Media Regulatory Authority to monitor online content.

“Tell me if there is any controversial clause in PECA.

“If digital media continues like this, no one will be able to leave their homes,” Tarar remarked. He further noted that digital media influencers generating substantial earnings should contribute financially to the government.

During the same committee meeting, Minister Atta Tarar shared details of the government’s two-year plan to revamp Pakistan Television (PTV). He stated that all outstanding ICC dues had been cleared and that work was underway to modernize the state broadcaster.

“The HD and Ultra HD project will be completed within two years, and the world will see a reformed PTV,” Tarar said.