The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on April 18 approved an application for an early hearing of a petition seeking the formation of a commission under the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act, aimed at safeguarding journalists’ rights. The court has directed that the petition be fixed for next week.
Justice Sardar Ijaz Ishaq Khan, presiding over a single bench, heard the petition filed by journalist Shakir Abbasi. In his petition, Abbasi named the cabinet secretary, the Ministry of Information, and the Ministry of Human Rights as respondents.
During the hearing, Barrister Jahangir Khan Jadoon, representing the petitioner, argued that the Act provides journalists with comprehensive protection as it ensures journalists can carry out their work without interference, offering them security against threats and coercion. The Act also mandates the creation of an independent commission to oversee the protection of journalists.
Despite the law being signed into effect by the President over two and a half years ago, no commission has yet been established by the government the petitioner’s counsel said. Barrister Jadoon emphasized that laws should be implemented for compliance and not just for international appearances or to secure GSP Plus status. He urged the court to issue orders binding the respondents to form the commission within a stipulated time frame.
The petition, which has been pending since June 3, 2024, seeks the court’s intervention to ensure the enforcement of the Journalist Protection Act, particularly the establishment of the mandated commission. Barrister Jadoon also pointed out the urgency of the matter, stating that the delay in forming the commission is putting journalists’ safety and rights at risk.
Photo Source: Islamabad High Court website
