On April 22, the Balochistan High Court (BHC) suspended the Quetta Deputy Commissioner’s directive that barred organisations and political parties from holding events at the Quetta Press Club without prior permission, terming it a violation of constitutional rights.

A two-member divisional bench comprising Justice Rozi Khan Bareech and Justice Sardar Ahmed Halimi passed the interim order during the hearing of a constitutional petition. The Deputy Commissioner’s order, dated August 27, 2024, was suspended, and the case was adjourned for one week.

During the hearing, the court observed that the restriction was in contravention of Article 19 of the Constitution, which ensures freedom of speech and expression and freedom of the press. The Assistant Advocate General (AAG), who had earlier requested time to justify the directive. In the latest hearing, the court found the response unsatisfactory. The bench directed the AAG to present a detailed report at the next hearing.

A notice was also issued to the Secretary of the Quetta Press Club to submit a report by or before the next hearing.

The now-suspended directive, issued by the DC Quetta on August 27, 2024, and addressed to the press club’s president stated that “owing to the current law and order situation,” no political party or organization was allowed to organize a conference or seminar at the Quetta Press Club without the permission of the district administration. The press club was informed that no conference or seminar could be held without a non-objection certificate (NOC) or permission from the district administration.

Photo Source: Balochistan High Court (BHC)