ISLAMABAD: Supreme Court of Pakistan (SCP) on Friday lifted ban on Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Chief Altaf Hussain’s broadcasting of speeches and statements, saying the ban itself had become invalid as no extension was made in the order issued earlier.
The hearing was conducted by a two-member bench headed by Justice Aijaz Afzal.
MQM lawyer Asma Jahangir advocated the stance that Lahore High Court (LHC) had banned the live speeches of Altaf Hussain, which was against his basic rights and freedom of speech.
On court’s inquiry, Asma Jahangir told that LHC’s order was issued on Sept 7 and the judge stated that the issue will be resolved if Altaf Hussain apologized for the mistake. She said that MQM chief submitted a written apology but the case is still pending.
Justice Qazi Faiz Esa stated that under Article-19 freedom of expression is also conditional and have legal restrictions.
On the other hand, Justice Aijaz Afzal remarked that the ban was for 15 days and was due to end on Sept 18, however, the order expired automatically as no extension was made in it after conclusion.
The court while issuing notices to the parties adjourned the hearing till Nov 3. After the hearing, Asma Jahangir told the media that ban on Altaf Hussain’s speeches and statements does not remain after the observation of Justice Aijaz Afzal.
