Journalists across Punjab opposed the Defamation Bill 2024, raising serious concerns about its potential implications on press freedom.
The Joint Action Committee, comprising prominent media associations like APNS, CPNE, PFUJ, and EMEND, has openly criticized the bill, labelling it a draconian measure. In a recent statement, they urged the government to delay the bill’s passage to allow for comprehensive discussions and adjustments.
The committee also addressed the federal government’s proposed Digital Media Authority, stressing that while media organizations are not against reforming defamation laws or regulating digital media, the current form of the Punjab government’s defamation bill is overly oppressive. They advocate for a balanced approach in legislation that protects individual rights while ensuring freedom of expression.
A meeting at the Lahore Press Club saw active participation from various media representatives, including CPNE and PFUJ, as well as cameramen and photographers’ associations. Arshad Ansari, President of the Lahore Press Club, highlighted their peaceful opposition to the proposed legislation and announced plans for a protest before the assembly session on Monday if the government proceeds without addressing their concerns.
Irshad Arif, President of CPNE, also commented on the new law’s redundancy, pointing out that existing laws like PEMRA, defamation, and PECA should be sufficient. He suggested that the push for new legislation might be motivated by less-than-honourable intentions, signalling a potentially worrying trend for media freedom in Punjab.
