Action against a hostile social media campaign that targets the judiciary is ordered by the LHC.

A written ruling has been issued by the Lahore High Court (LHC) in response to a plea against derogatory social media promotion directed at the higher judiciary.

In his written order from the previous hearing, Justice Ali Zia Bajwa instructed law enforcement to take action against those who are trying to erode public trust in the legal system and those who are conducting anti-judicial activities.

The court made it clear that the goal of this action is to preserve the institution’s independence and dignity, not to stifle reasonable criticism.

According to the ruling, the judiciary is still subject to fair criticism, just like any other institution, and judicial decisions are subject to public, professional, and academic scrutiny.

The court did stress, however, that criticism must be courteous, offered in good faith, and restricted to the legal justification of rulings. It is unacceptable for the courts to be the target of malicious campaigns or character assassinations.

The written decision further stated that it is improper to accuse judges of bias or dishonesty, and that criticism that erodes public confidence in the legal system may have legal repercussions.

Although freedom of expression is guaranteed under Article 19-A of the Constitution, the Lahore High Court noted that this right is not unqualified and is subject to legitimate limitations. It is forbidden to express anything that is detrimental to the honor of Islam, Pakistan’s integrity, the country’s defense, or morality.

The Director General of the National Cyber Crime Circle (NCC), FIA, told the court during the hearing that those responsible for spreading false information against the judiciary have been identified and that the issue is being handled with the highest seriousness.
The court has postponed the petition’s remaining proceedings until January 22.