IT and Telecom Committee Reviews Digital Media Bill 2025

A meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT and Telecom was held in Islamabad. The main agenda was the Digital Media Bill 2025. The bill focuses on preventing obscenity and immoral content on digital platforms.

The bill was presented by Member of the National Assembly Shahida Rehman. Committee members discussed its objectives and possible impact. Federal Minister for IT and Telecom, Shaza Fatima, also briefed the committee.

Shaza Fatima said that laws and authorities already exist to regulate digital media. She stressed that instead of creating confusion, existing systems should be strengthened. She added that Pakistan already has a legal framework to deal with harmful online content.

IT and Telecom Committee Reviews Digital Media Bill 2025

The minister addressed concerns about social media regulation. She said there was a perception that platforms like X were previously banned. She clarified that this impression was incorrect. According to her, regulation does not depend on whether global companies have offices in Pakistan.

Shaza Fatima explained that delegations from international tech companies regularly visit Pakistan. During these visits, discussions are held on compliance with local laws. She rejected the idea that global platforms cannot be regulated without a physical presence in the country.

The committee chairman raised serious concerns about the performance of the NCCIA. He said questions were being raised about its effectiveness. He also urged the authority to improve its performance and ensure proper enforcement of laws.

Committee member Ali Qasim Gillani also spoke during the meeting. He referred to a video by YouTuber Ducky Bhai. He said the video highlighted public criticism of NCCIA. Many members had watched it, he added.

The chairman also emphasized the need for strict implementation of digital media laws. He said NCCIA must work closely with relevant institutions. The goal should be to regulate digital content effectively and transparently.

Members agreed that unchecked digital content poses social challenges. They stressed the importance of balanced regulation. Freedom of expression should be protected, but misuse must be controlled.

After a detailed discussion, Shahida Rehman also made an important decision. She withdrew the Digital Media Bill 2025 from the committee. The decision was taken to allow further consultation and review.

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The withdrawal did not end the discussion on digital regulation. Committee members agreed that the issue remains important. They emphasized improving existing laws rather than rushing new legislation.

The meeting concluded with a clear message. Digital platforms must follow Pakistani laws. Regulatory bodies must perform better. Coordination between institutions is essential.