Court slaps ban on airing of MQM chief's anti-state speeches

JournalismPakistan.com | Published: 31 August 2015

The Lahore High Court issued a ban on the publication of MQM chief Altaf Hussain's anti-state speeches. The ruling follows claims of treason made against him and others in the party's leadership.

Summary

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court Monday banned airing and publishing of anti-state speeches by Muttahida Quami Movement chief Altaf Hussain.

Three similar pleas filed against the MQM boss were heard by a three-judge full bench led by Justice Mazahir Ali Naqvi and comprising Justice Mazhar Iqbal Sidhu and Justice Erum Sajjad Gul. The petitioners claim that Hussain and the party’s Rabita Committee members have delivered speeches against Pakistan and the military. They are asking the court to order the government to try Hussain for high treason.

The LHC issued notices to Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) and the federal government asking them to submit their replies at the next hearing.

Key Points

Lahore High Court bans anti-state speeches by Altaf Hussain.
Three-judge panel includes Justice Mazahir Ali Naqvi.
Petitioners demand treason charges against Hussain.
PEMRA and federal government to respond at next hearing.
Speeches deemed harmful to Pakistan and its military.

Relevant Topics

Altaf Hussain

Lahore High Court

MQM

Anti-State

PEMRA

Treason

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