Jamaat-e-Islami Chief Denounces Punjab Defamation Bill as “Draconian”
On May 23, the Chief of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), Hafiz Naeemur Rehman criticized the Punjab Defamation Bill 2024, labeling it a draconian attempt to curb freedom of speech. During a press conference held in Mansoora, Lahore, Rehman expressed his disapproval following discussions with the Joint Action Committee (JAC).
The delegation included Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) President Irshad Arif, Lahore Press Club President Arshad Ansari, Dunya Media Group Managing Director Naveed Kashif, former CPNE president Kazim Khan, and senior journalist Ayaz Khan.
“You cannot control the people even in America. The government must rescind the defamation bill, and the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) should also be abolished,” Rehman asserted.
He warned that the government would be making a significant mistake if it did not withdraw what he described as a draconian law. “This government doesn’t represent the people of Pakistan as it has been imposed on them,” he added.
On May 20, the Punjab Assembly passed a controversial Punjab Defamation Bill,2024, which allows for the establishment of special tribunals to address “fake news,” which was passed by a voice vote after the government refused to delay voting despite requests from journalists.
The bill has drawn criticism for potentially curbing free media.
In a statement, the Pakistan Press Foundation highlighted the lack of clarity, transparency, and consultation in the drafting and approval of the bill, pointing out the potential for misuse against journalists and media professionals. PPF had called for meaningful consultations with relevant stakeholders before further amendments or legislation were passed.
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