On February 18, 2026, the Supreme Court of Pakistan granted journalist Sohrab Barkat post-arrest bail in a case under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), requiring a surety bond of Rs200,000. Barkat was accused of spreading misinformation about state institutions during an interview, with Deputy Attorney General Raja Muhammad Shafqat Abbasi arguing that the charges could lead to a 10-year imprisonment. Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan highlighted the selective application of the law, stating that while Barkat faced severe charges, no action was taken against those making derogatory remarks about the judiciary. The court's decision to grant bail, however, did not acquit Barkat, allowing the government to continue proceedings against him. This case reflects ongoing tensions regarding freedom of expression in Pakistan, particularly concerning media criticism of state institutions (Dawn, February 18, 2026).