FIA assures SC of withdrawing cases against journalists

English , Latest - تازہ ترین , / Monday, March 25th, 2024

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ISLAMABAD:
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) assured the Supreme Court on Monday that it will withdraw cases filed against journalists amidst allegations of harassment. The cases were registered over a “malicious campaign” that allegedly targeted the judiciary and other state institutions on social media. The case was presided over by a bench, led by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa. The CJP remarked.

that the court had also taken notice of journalists being harassed in 2021. “If action had been taken promptly, perhaps we would not be facing this today – that matter was more severe than a mere FIA notice,” observed the chief justice. He also highlighted the apparent reluctance of some to take a firm stance before the court. The legal counsel representing the journalists drew attention to Section 20 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), flagging its frequent misuse as a concern. The court responded that the FIA has committed to withdrawing cases against journalists Amir Mir and Imran Shafqat. FIA officials also confirmed that applications will be submitted to retract the charges against the aforementioned individuals formally.