Prominent media figures, including Harmit Singh, accused of inciting Violence and fostering division under PECA Act.
FIA Files cases against journalists & vloggers for false narratives. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cyber Crime Wing in Islamabad has registered cases against several journalists and vloggers under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), accusing them of spreading false narratives against state institutions and inciting violence.
The cases, registered on charges of creating and disseminating misleading content, include allegations of attempting to provoke public unrest and fostering enmity between state pillars. The list of individuals named in the FIRs includes prominent journalists such as Harmit Singh, Ahmed Noorani, Abdul Qadir, Hussain Rafiq, Salman Durrani, Imran Khattana, Maryam Shafqat Malik, and Rizwan Ahmed Khan.
Among the accusations, journalist Harmit Singh is accused of using his Twitter profile to promote a malicious narrative against Pakistan‘s state institutions, specifically referencing the incident of November 24-27, 2024. He is alleged to have incited violent actions among the general public, instilled fear and insecurity, and created division between key state institutions. Additionally, he is accused of stoking ethnic and regional tensions for political gains, an act that could be seen as promoting rebellion against the state.
The cases against Harmit Singh are registered under sections 9, 10, 11, and 24 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 (PECA), in conjunction with Section 505 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), dealing with electronic crimes, public incitement, and promoting hostility between different groups.
This legal action highlights the growing scrutiny of media professionals and content creators, particularly those whose online activities are perceived as undermining state authority or creating unrest in the country.
