Justice Athar Minallah speaks on hate speech on social media

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has heard a case against the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for violating its powers. Justice Minallah has stated that protecting the citizenry is the court’s responsibility.

Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court, Justice Athar Minallah, has said that the protection of the fundamental rights of citizens is the responsibility of the court.

The Chief Justice questioned that why the SOPs made by the FIA ​​were not being implemented. “The FIA ​​has moved away from the PICA Act to the PPC. Those who made these provisions of the law stopped using them themselves,” he said.

Justice Athar Minallah further said that hate speeches were being made on social media on a daily basis but not a single person was apprehended regarding it.

In reply, Additional Attorney General Qasim Wadud said that 178,000 complaints were received in a year and 1831 people were arrested. Arrests were also made for child pornography and hate speech.

During the hearing of the case, Chief Justice Athar Minallah said that inciting religious sentiments by stirring someone up is called ‘hate speech’ all over the world. “Social media is not limited to the use of journalists,” he said. “Those who have no voice in the society also use social media themselves, they should be listened to even if what they say is wrong.”

The Chief Justice asked when the process of consultation with stakeholders would be complete. “Don’t get the impression that you are targeting someone. Complete the process before the next hearing so that a decision can be made in light of it,” he said.

The Islamabad High Court directed consultation with all concerned stakeholders, including PFUJ. The hearing of the case against violation of FIA powers was adjourned till November.

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