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PICA Act 2025 Challenged in Peshawar High Court Over Freedom of Expression Concerns
Journalist Anil Masih has challenged the PICA Act 2025 in the Peshawar High Court, calling it unconstitutional and a violation of freedom of expression and privacy rights.
ND
by News Desk
2025-03-15
PICA Act 2025 Challenged in Peshawar High Court Over Freedom of Expression Concerns

The Prevention of Cybercrimes Act (PICA) 2025 has been challenged in the Peshawar High Court (PHC) by journalist Anil Masih, who argues that the law violates fundamental rights and restricts freedom of expression.

Legal Challenge Against PICA Act 2025

The petition, filed by Anil Masih, calls for the act to be declared unconstitutional, citing its recent amendments as an infringement on fundamental rights, privacy, and due process.

According to the petition, the law:
✔ Violates Article 19 of the Constitution of Pakistan, which protects freedom of speech
✔ Imposes severe restrictions on digital media, journalism, and online content
✔ Contradicts international human rights standards regarding privacy and free expression

Government Institutions Named in Petition

The petition has made multiple government institutions parties to the case, challenging their authority to regulate and censor online spaces in a manner that restricts press freedom and individual rights.

Growing Concerns Over Digital Censorship

Legal experts and media organizations have raised concerns over the PICA Act's amendments, stating that they give excessive power to the authorities to control digital content, monitor private communications, and take legal action against online dissent.

The Peshawar High Court is expected to hear the case soon, as media bodies and human rights activists closely follow the potential implications of the act on free speech in Pakistan.
Tagged:

Pakistan

HumanRights

PressFreedom

FreedomOfSpeech

PICAAct
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