The Balochistan High Court (BHC) on Monday asked all provincial governments to respond to petitions challenging Peca. These petitions were filed by the Balochistan Bar Council, journalists’ union, and Human Rights Commission of Pakistan. The court emphasized the importance of provincial input before making any decision.
During proceedings, Additional Attorney General Farid Dogar said a case challenging Peca is already pending before the Federal Constitutional Court. He requested the BHC to dismiss the petitions based on this. The bench, led by Justice Shoukat Ali Rakhshani and Justice Gul Hassan Tareen, carefully considered this argument.
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Advocate Rahib Khan Buledi, representing the petitioners, argued that Peca violates constitutional rights. He said the law restricts freedom of speech and freedom of information. The counsel added that journalists, lawyers, and activists faced multiple cases under this law, raising human rights concerns.
The court listened to both sides and then adjourned the hearing. It directed all provincial governments to submit detailed responses soon. The judges stressed the need for thorough consideration to protect constitutional rights and human rights.
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Experts say the outcome of the Peca petitions could impact freedom of expression nationwide. The BHC’s next hearing will review provincial replies and decide on the future of these cases. Citizens and legal experts are closely watching the developments.