LHC summons PEMRA chairman on 16

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The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday summoned the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) chairman on 16 to explain why news of MQM leader Altaf Hussain’s activities were being broadcast despite a ban on his media coverage.

The bench comprising Justice Syed Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi, Justice Mazhar Iqbal Sidhu and Justice Erum Sajad Gull issued its orders while hearing three identical petitions filed by Malik Maqsood Ahmad Awan, Aftab Ahmad Virk and Abdullah Malik for proceedings against Altaf Hussain under Article 6 of the Constitution due to his anti-Pakistan and anti-armed forces speeches.

During the hearing, Altaf Hussain’s counsel Asma Jehangir could not appear due to prior engagements in the Apex Court.

However, the petitioners’ counsels submitted that the media was broadcasting news of Altaf Hussain’s activities despite a ban on his coverage. They contended that the act was paramount to contempt of court.

After hearing the arguments, the bench adjourned further hearing till 16 and summoned PEMRA chairman for reply.

The bench had earlier ordered PEMRA and Press Council of Pakistan to completely ban broadcast and publication of MQM Chief Altaf Hussain’s activities.