Defamation Bill 2024 in Pakistan to Impact on Journalists and Youtubers

The Punjab Assembly approved the Defamation Bill 2024 despite vocal opposition protests. The opposition labeled the bill “Kaala Qanoon” means black law and dramatically tore up copies of the legislation in protest.

What is Defamation Bill 2024 in Pakistan

The newly approved bill will encompass print, electronic, and social media. It allows defamation cases to be filed against the spread of false and fabricated news. This includes fake news disseminated on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Legal Actions and Penalties in Pakistan

Under this law, legal action can be taken against news that harms someone’s personal life or public position. Special tribunals will be established to handle defamation cases, with a mandate to deliver judgments within six months.

The bill stipulates a hefty fine of 30 lakh rupees for those found guilty. For cases involving allegations against individuals holding constitutional positions, a High Court bench will have the authority to hear the case. Additionally, the bill provides that women and transgender individuals will receive government legal assistance in such cases.

Journalists strongly opposed the bill, boycotting the Assembly proceedings and staging protests on the Assembly’s stairs. Journalist leaders accused the government of betrayal following previous negotiations, vowing to protest across all forums.

Opposition leader Ahmed Khan Bhachar condemned the bill, reiterating that it is a “black law” and stating that they cannot support it. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan also voiced concerns, arguing that the bill suppresses freedom of expression.

Features of the Defamation Bill 2024 in Pakistan

• Applies to print, electronic, and social media.
• Defamation cases can be filed for false and fabricated news.
• Targets fake news spread via YouTube and social media.
• Legal action for news harming personal life or public position.
• Special tribunals to decide cases within six months.
• Fine of 30 lakh rupees.
• High Court benches to hear cases involving constitutional positions.
• Government legal assistance for women and transgender individuals.

Unified Journalist Opposition

The Lahore Press Club and other journalist organizations have united against the bill. Arshad Ansari, President of the Lahore Press Club, criticized the Punjab government for hastily presenting the bill, calling it a display of malice. He declared that all journalistic bodies, including APNS, CPNE, EMEND, the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists, Press Clubs, and the Press Gallery Committee, are united in their opposition and will protest on every front.

The opposition in the Punjab Assembly has expressed solidarity with journalists, supporting their stance against the controversial bill.