Islamabad High Court ban on video coverage sparks press freedom concerns

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published last month |  JP Staff Report

ISLAMABAD — The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued a sweeping circular banning all forms of video recording and live streaming within its premises, a move that is raising alarm among journalists and press freedom advocates.

The circular, signed by the IHC’s Deputy Registrar of Security, states that journalists, lawyers, litigants, and visitors are prohibited from recording videos in courtrooms, corridors, waiting areas, chambers, and offices. It further directs that mobile phones remain in silent mode in courtrooms and bans the use of any device for video coverage.

Under the order, court security has been authorized to stop anyone found recording, confiscate their devices, and remove violators from the premises. The circular warns that violations may result in strict legal action.

While the High Court argues that the restrictions aim to preserve decorum and strengthen security, journalists contend that the blanket ban curtails press freedom and restricts the public’s right to access information. Legal reporters have long argued that responsible courtroom coverage plays a vital role in promoting transparency and accountability in the justice system.

Globally, courts are experimenting with regulated live streaming to balance openness with dignity. In Pakistan, however, journalists fear such bans may fuel secrecy and limit independent reporting at a time when judicial transparency is already under scrutiny.

Press freedom groups have previously criticized similar restrictions, warning that excessive curbs on coverage risk isolating the judiciary from public trust. The IHC’s new policy is likely to intensify the debate between ensuring courtroom order and safeguarding the media’s role as a watchdog of democratic institutions.