NA panel to hold talks on Peca amendments next week

ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting on Thursday decided to convene another meeting next week, inviting media stakeholders and information minister to discuss amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca).

The meeting, chaired by MNA Pullain Baloch, emphasized the need for broad consultations with all stakeholders, including press clubs, to address concerns related to media regulation.

In addition to discussing Peca amendments, the committee also reviewed matters related to the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) for the ongoing year. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for a balanced approach to media regulation, ensuring both freedom of expression and accountability. Committee members reaffirmed their commitment to working collaboratively to address the challenges faced by Pakistan’s media industry.

During the briefing, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar warned that unchecked digital media could lead to serious societal issues, including incitement to violence. He stressed that the government had enacted Peca in good faith, primarily to regulate digital media.

The minister also outlined a comprehensive plan to modernise Radio Pakistan and state-run TV with advanced technology. He acknowledged the need for additional budgetary allocations to expand the state media’s network into rural areas.

Tarar said the additional funds would be utilised to upgrade existing electronic infrastructure. He also announced the establishment of a think tank comprising 14 market-recruited experts, with a total budget of Rs204 million allocated for the initiative.

Highlighting internal improvements within state-run TV, he said, “We have ensured timely salary payments to employees, unlike some private media organisations that fail to compensate their staff on time.”

He revealed plans to establish major state-run TV centres in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, providing internships to students in these regions. He underscored ongoing efforts to enhance state-run TV and Radio Pakistan’s performance, particularly by expanding coverage in Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK.

Expressing concerns over foreign-backed campaigns inciting rebellion among youth in these areas, Tarar said, “Through media, we will address these issues and guide the youth in a positive direction.”

Discussing improvements in state-run TV Sports, the minister said that corrupt elements had been removed, and a strong team had been assembled, yielding positive results.

Addressing financial losses incurred during the tenure of former information minister Fawad Chaudhry, Tarar disclosed that a court case was underway regarding a controversial contract. He expressed optimism that cancelling the contract would double state-run TV’s revenue.

He also criticised provincial governments for not providing adequate support to the national broadcaster, emphasizing that while provinces receive extensive coverage, they must allocate advertisements to state-run TV and Radio Pakistan.