A new bill, the Prohibition of Obscenity and Vulgarity on Digital Media Bill 2025, is set for debate in the upcoming National Assembly session. Introduced by PPP MNA Dr Syeda Shahida Rehmani, the bill seeks to curb obscene content on digital platforms, with penalties ranging from Rs100,000 to Rs100 million.

The proposed law covers all digital media, social media, apps, streaming services, films, web series, dramas, songs, live broadcasts, and advertisements. Prohibited content includes sexual immorality, drug use, mocking hijab or religious figures, and content deemed against the ideology of Pakistan or public morality.

The bill provides for a new authority, board, and tribunal. The board, comprising religious scholars, psychologists, legal and media experts, and civil society representatives, will recommend fines and bans. The tribunal, including a judge-level member, media professional, and IT expert, will hear cases.

Violations carry strict punishments: up to five years in jail and Rs10m fine for offences involving religion, women, children, or family values. Digital platforms must report content within 15 days, remove flagged material within 24 hours, and keep records for three years,  facing fines up to Rs100m for non-compliance. Repeat offenders risk license cancellation.

All crimes under the bill will be non-bailable and non-compoundable. Critics warn it may mirror the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, which has been widely criticised for curbing press freedom.