The bill amending the Official Secrets Act 1923 has been successfully passed. However, the proposed amendment that would have allowed agencies to arrest individuals or search premises without a warrant has been removed from the bill. This decision is widely welcomed, as such a provision could potentially transform the state into a police-controlled entity.
Additionally, it would have violated Article 9 of the Constitution of Pakistan, which guarantees the “Security of person,” asserting that no person can be deprived of life or liberty except in accordance with the law.
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It’s essential to explore why this amendment was initially suggested. Many observers speculate that this move was a result of Imran Khan’s confrontational political tactics. His allowing for the gathering of large crowds outside Imran Khan’s residence in Zaman Park. This strategy was obviously intended to obstruct the police from performing their duties, including through physical confrontations involving weapons.
The escalating confrontation culminated in the tragic events of May 9th. The attack on the state on that day was undoubtedly an act of war. Even in the case of former US President Trump, he faced accusations of attempting to exploit the Capitol violence by influencing lawmakers to delay the election certification. In the Pakistani context, the events involved significant damage to government properties, including Jinnah’s house, which has been reduced to a shell. That was the Corps Commander’s residence in Lahore. Alongside concentrated attacks on Army installations and monuments, including the GHQ.
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The events of that day unequivocally crossed a red line. It’s clear that democracy cannot be equated with the abuse of freedom of expression. This principle holds true worldwide. Unfortunately, the long-term consequences of Imran Khan’s actions have been highly detrimental. He has significantly diminished the political space that had been cultivated over the years. The trust and confidence between politicians, civilians, and the establishment have been severely damaged. The hard-earned progress made over decades has been undermined by the actions of one individual: Imran Khan.
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The writer is a lawyer, academic and political analyst. She has authored a book titled ‘A Comparative Analysis of Media & Media Laws in Pakistan.’ She can be contacted at: yasmeenali62@gmail.com and tweets at @yasmeen_9
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