PPP not to support defamation bill

LAHORE: The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has decided not to support Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) over the defamation bill.

PPP leader Ali Haider Gilani has categorically stated that the PPP was neither consulted about nor informed regarding the defamation bill.

He said, the PPP has never wanted to become a part of the defamation bill.

Gilani asserted that the party members were explicitly instructed to remain absent from the assembly on the day the bill was passed.

“On the day of the bill’s approval, none of the PPP members were present in the assembly,” he confirmed.

This absence underscores the party’s long-standing commitment to media freedom, a principle the PPP has consistently championed, he said.

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“The Pakistan People’s Party has always stood firmly for the freedom of the press,” Gilani reiterated, reinforcing the party’s stance against any measures that might undermine journalistic independence.

A few days back the Punjab government had tabled the defamation law, which will also regulate social media.

Addressing the press conference in Lahore, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari had said: “Now, nobody will be allowed to insult others on social media. The affected person can file an application through the tribunal. The defamation case will have to wrap up within 180 days.”

“Three proceedings will be held in 21 days,” she said.

She said: “There is a dire need to end the process of hurling allegations against each other.”