The Lahore High Court (LHC) has declined to issue a stay order against the enforcement of specific sections of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2025. The decision came after journalist Jaffar bin Yar, through his legal counsel Advocate Nadeem Sarwar, filed a petition challenging the law’s implementation.

Justice Farooq Haider, presiding over the case, stated that a final decision would be made only after receiving responses from the relevant authorities. Notices have been issued to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and other involved parties, requiring them to submit their replies within three weeks.

Concerns Over Freedom of Expression

The petitioner argued that the National Assembly fast-tracked the PECA Amendment Bill without following standard legislative procedures. He raised concerns that the new amendments impose stricter penalties, including up to three years of imprisonment and hefty fines, for spreading false information. This, he claimed, could be misused to suppress press freedom and curtail freedom of speech in Pakistan.

Additionally, the petition emphasized that no consultations were held with key stakeholders, including journalist associations and human rights organizations, before passing the amendments. Critics of PECA 2025 fear it may be weaponized to stifle dissent and target journalists, activists, and social media users.

Judicial Process and Next Steps

Despite rejecting the immediate petition, the court’s directive to gather responses indicates that a broader debate on the legality of PECA 2025 is on the horizon. The case is expected to shape future discussions on digital rights, censorship, and the balance between cybersecurity and personal freedoms in Pakistan.

As the legal battle unfolds, media professionals, digital rights activists, and political analysts continue to watch closely, raising concerns over the potential long-term implications of PECA 2025 on journalism and free speech.