ISLAMABAD: Islamabad High Court (IHC) Monday said masses need to be told as two what sort of freedom of expression is permissible in Pakistan and they need to be informed about Ariticle-19 of the Constitution.
Hearing a petition regarding blasphemous content on social media, Chief Justice IHC Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui said judiciary alone is entitled to interpret the Constitution and the law, adding citizens should be educated about Article-19 of the Constitution of Pakistan.
Justice Siddiqui said confusion is being created over freedom of expression, adding, “Certain people have objection to my shedding tears.”
Justice Siddiqui advised police and Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to exercise extreme caution in identification of blasphemous content.
It should be mentioned here that in last hearing, the IHC directed authorities to dispatch the material to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and said the PM should know as to what is happening around in the country.
Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui ordered to block all controversial pages on the social media and directed the Secretary Information Technology to call a meeting to map out a strategy.
Justice Siddqiui said the presence of this blasphemous content may spark law and order situation in the country, and directed Home Secretary to court assistance from intelligence agencies in this regard.
Home Secretary submitted eradication of the blasphemous content will require two to three weeks.
Justice Siddiqui remarked the vulgarism has overtaken electronic media in the country and honor of nation is being sold in the name of product; hence, he directed Secretary Information to look into the matter.
The Prime Minister will be summoned if needed, he said and directed the authorities to inform the Prime Minister about the proceedings on the case.
“I will summon Prime Minister in case no action takes place. I request you to take action,” he observed.
“For God’s sake, do not do this to the holy Prophet (peace be upon him),” Justice Siddiqui said through tears, leaving some lawyers in the courtroom with tearful eyes