On August 20, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) reserved its verdict on a petition challenging the appointment of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) chairman. The petition was filed by digital rights activist Usama Khilji through Advocate Asad Ladha and was heard by Justice Babar Sattar.
In its written order, the court noted that detailed arguments from all parties had already been heard. It recalled that the federal government and other interested parties were earlier given the chance to explain the selection process of respondent No. 4 as PTA chairman. The bench also invited arguments on the court’s authority to grant relief in view of the 26th Constitutional Amendment, which amended Article 199.
During the latest hearing, the Assistant Attorney General informed the court that the Additional Attorney General, who is handling the matter, was on leave. He requested time for filing written submissions. The PTA’s counsel also sought an adjournment due to being abroad, while the main counsel for respondent No. 4 was also not available.
Justice Sattar remarked that as extensive arguments had already been presented, no further oral hearings were necessary. Instead, the court directed all counsels, including those representing the federal government, PTA, respondent No. 4, or any other interested parties, to file written submissions by September 8, 2025.
The order further stated that if the federal government wished to place on record any documentation related to the process of appointing the PTA chairman from among its members, it should also submit the same by September 8. The judgment will be announced after reviewing these submissions.
