Fake news now unbailable criminal offence with imprisonment of five years: Farogh Naseem

ISLAMABAD: (HRNW) Federal Law Minister Farogh Naseem announced on Sunday that a presidential ordinance has been issued according to which fake news will now be an unbailable criminal offence with imprisonment of as many as five years

In a press conference, the law minister said that an amendment in the existing Pakistan Electronic Crime Act (PECA) has been drafted by Babar Awan, adding that media has gained a significant role in modern times and journalism is state’s fourth pillar.

“Fake news was spread on the premier’s personal life, former chief justice Gulzar Ahmed was subjected to lewd language and now divorce of the first lady is being run,” he said. “The new law does not infringe on any liberty. Media is free to criticise but it should not spread fake news.”

This act is not in conflict with the constitution, adding that nowhere in the constitution it is permissible to spread fake news.