ISLAMABAD
Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has demanded for withdrawal of PECA act.
SCBA adopted media under attack resolution of consultative meeting.
It was said therein that freedom of expression is foundation of democracy and it should be kept secure from every coercion and pressure.
We reject PECA act-2025 declaring it flawed legislation. It is condemned. PECA act runs contrary to article-19 of constitution.
It was said in the resolution PECA act 2025 is violation of rights of media men which have been acknowledged in article 19 of international charter for civic and political rights under UN.
This meeting demands of government that amendments made in PECA act be revoked forthwith and all the restrictions imposed on freedom of press be lifted.
The meeting expressed concern that definition of several clauses is vague. These have not been narrated in clear terms.
No clear definition is therein in regard to the word “jhoota” and “Jaili” stated in the act. The meaning of any individual is very broad and it should be restricted to affected person or group.
The definition of venue is vague due to which FIR of one incident can be registered in different areas.
Tribunals should be fully free from administrative influence.
Acknowledging media as fourth pillar of state in the meeting, full- fledged support was announced for free media and protection of the journalists.
The meeting expressed grave concern over defamation laws and violation human rights.
All other office bearers including president SC Bar attended the meeting on Monday.
