The Impact of the Punjab Defamation Act 2024 on Media Freedom and Accountability

Abstract

The paper examines the impact of the Punjab Defamation Act 2024 (PDA 2024) on freedom of media and accountability to the populace in Pakistan. The law was enacted on June 7, 2024. It attempts to combat both print and online fake news but it has been criticized due to special tribunals it establishes and massive fines of at least PKR 3 million. The study provided a qualitative and comparative legal analysis of PDA 2024 and the Defamation Ordinance 2002, the Pakistani Penal Code, and the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 to compare the three laws. The results indicate that the legislation has unclear definitions and expedients and poses a threat to free speech and fair trials. The research advises to clarify the definitions of the law, provide fair trials, and consult the stakeholders in order that the freedom of the media and protection against defamation should have a balance.