NCSW raises concerns over PECA Act 2025

Islamabad:National Commission on the Status Of Women (NCSW) has expressed concerns over the PECA Act 2025, citing its broad scope and potential to curb freedom of expression.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Commission expressed concern that the law, which allows multiple investigating authorities to take action, may unfairly target journalists, social media influencers, and citizens.

The statement says that the PECA Act 2025 imposes stringent penalties, including up to three years of imprisonment and a fine of 20 lakhs, for mistakes or unintentional acts. "This vague wording has raised concerns among stakeholders, who fear it may be used to silence dissenting voices." It says that the journalist community, which has played a crucial role in strengthening democracy in Pakistan, is particularly vulnerable to this law. Women, who make up over 49 per cent of the population, will also be disproportionately affected.