In an emergency virtual meeting convened by the Joint Action Committee (JAC), a coalition representing several media organizations including the Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA), All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS), Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), and Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND), a resounding rejection of the recently passed Punjab Defamation Bill 2024 was declared.
The JAC, joined by representatives from PBA, APNS, CPNE, PFUJ, and AEMEND, denounced the bill as a form of “black magic” and announced plans to challenge it in court. The contentious legislation was characterized as draconian and condemned for its passage in the dead of night without prior consultation with stakeholders.
Expressing grave concerns over the implications of the bill, the JAC cited provisions such as the establishment of malicious tribunals, imposition of hefty fines, and retroactive application of laws as direct infringements on free speech and press freedom. Instances of riots following the implementation of the law were highlighted as evidence of its suppressive nature.
Moreover, the JAC lamented the disregard for stakeholders’ input, noting that despite recommendations from prominent journalistic organizations like APNS and PBA, their concerns were ignored, signaling bad faith on the part of the government.
In response to the perceived threat posed by the bill, the JAC announced the formation of various committees to address the current situation comprehensively. These committees will engage with stakeholders on matters concerning communication and legal issues, reaffirming the commitment to safeguarding fundamental rights.
The collective statement issued on behalf of PBA, APNS, CPNE, PFUJ, and AEMEND serves as a unified stance against what they perceive as an assault on press freedom and basic human rights. As tensions escalate between media organizations and the government, the stage is set for a legal battle that could have far-reaching implications for freedom of expression in Pakistan.
