The All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) has strongly criticized an NCCIA notice issued to Daily Nai Baat. The body called it an overreach and a threat to press freedom in Pakistan.
According to APNS President Senator Sarmad Ali and Secretary General Muhammad Athar Kazi, the NCCIA notice was based on a complaint regarding a published column. The column reportedly included the phrase “bureau corrupts,” which triggered the complaint from an administrative association.
APNS stated that applying cybercrime laws to print journalism is inappropriate. It said the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) was designed for digital platforms only.
The organization further argued that the NCCIA notice goes beyond the agency’s legal jurisdiction. It added that such actions contradict earlier assurances given when the law was introduced.
According to APNS, matters related to newspaper content fall under the Press Council of Pakistan. It stressed that cybercrime authorities should not interfere in print media issues.
The statement warned that actions like the NCCIA notice could create fear among journalists. It said this may lead to self-censorship and weaken democratic accountability.
APNS described the move as a dangerous precedent for media freedom. It said that journalism in the public interest must not face criminal investigation.
The organization urged the government to protect constitutional rights under Article 19. It also demanded immediate withdrawal of the NCCIA notice issued to the newspaper.
APNS expressed full solidarity with Daily Nai Baat and its staff. It said the media community stands united against any attempt to restrict press freedom.
Media experts also note that clarity in jurisdiction is essential for fair regulation. They believe overlapping authority between institutions can create legal confusion.
The controversy surrounding the NCCIA notice has sparked debate on media regulation in Pakistan. Journalists and press bodies continue to call for clearer boundaries in enforcement laws.
The APNS statement concluded that a free press is essential for transparency and public trust. It warned that any attempt to silence criticism could harm democratic institutions.
The case remains under discussion as media organizations await a response from authorities regarding the future handling of such complaints.
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