Digital Media Bill 2025 Reviewed by IT and Telecom Committee in Islamabad
Lawmakers debate online content regulation, NCCIA performance, and the future of digital governance in Pakistan
The National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecom convened a key meeting in Islamabad to review the proposed Digital Media Bill 2025, a piece of legislation aimed at regulating online content and preventing obscenity and immoral material on digital platforms.
The bill was formally presented by Member of the National Assembly Shahida Rehman, who outlined its core objectives and rationale. Committee members engaged in a detailed discussion on the bill’s scope, enforcement challenges, and its potential impact on freedom of expression and digital innovation in Pakistan.
Government Stresses Strengthening Existing Digital Laws
Federal Minister for IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima briefed the committee and raised important concerns regarding the need for new legislation. She stated that Pakistan already has laws and regulatory authorities in place to deal with harmful and illegal online content.
According to the minister, introducing new laws without fully utilizing existing frameworks could create confusion and overlap. She emphasized that instead of rushing additional legislation, the focus should be on strengthening current institutions and improving enforcement mechanisms.
Shaza Fatima reiterated that Pakistan’s legal framework already provides tools to address digital misconduct, including obscene and unethical online material.
Clarification on Social Media Regulation and Global Platforms
Addressing concerns related to social media regulation, the IT minister rejected the perception that platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) were previously banned in Pakistan. She clarified that regulation is not dependent on whether a global technology company has a physical office within the country.
She explained that international tech companies regularly send delegations to Pakistan, where discussions are held regarding compliance with local laws and regulations. The minister dismissed the notion that digital platforms cannot be regulated without a local presence, stressing that legal compliance applies regardless of geography.
Committee Raises Concerns Over NCCIA Performance
During the meeting, the committee chairman expressed serious reservations about the performance of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). He noted that questions were increasingly being raised about the authority’s effectiveness and enforcement capabilities.
Committee member Ali Qasim Gillani referenced a recent video by YouTuber Ducky Bhai, which criticized NCCIA’s role and performance. He said many committee members had viewed the video, highlighting growing public dissatisfaction with the agency.
The chairman urged NCCIA to improve coordination with relevant institutions and ensure transparent, effective enforcement of digital laws.
Balancing Regulation and Freedom of Expression
Committee members unanimously agreed that unchecked digital content presents serious social challenges. However, they stressed the importance of balanced regulation that protects freedom of expression while preventing misuse of digital platforms.
Members emphasized that regulatory bodies must act responsibly and within legal boundaries to maintain public trust and avoid overreach.
Digital Media Bill 2025 Withdrawn for Further Review
Following extensive deliberations, Shahida Rehman withdrew the Digital Media Bill 2025 from committee consideration. The decision was taken to allow further consultation, review, and refinement of the proposed legislation.
Despite the withdrawal, committee members agreed that digital media regulation remains a critical issue. They concluded that improving existing laws and institutional performance should take priority over introducing new legislation.
Key Takeaway from the Committee Meeting
The meeting ended with a clear message: digital platforms must comply with Pakistani laws, regulatory bodies like NCCIA must improve their performance, and stronger coordination between institutions is essential to effectively regulate digital media in Pakistan.
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