Supreme Court issues contempt notices to TV channels

The Supreme Court has recently cracked down on 34 television channels for airing alleged anti-judiciary press conferences involving Senator Faisal Vawda and MQM-P MNA Mustafa Kamal. Despite attempts at apologies, the court found the explanations lacking and issued contempt notices. Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, leading a three-judge bench, stressed the significance of showing respect towards the judiciary.

During the court proceedings, Kamal offered an apology, while Vawda defended his actions with a detailed explanation. The court expressed dismay over the use of offensive language and clarified that the notices were not personal but rather related to criticism of the judiciary.

Representatives for both lawmakers pleaded for leniency, with Vawda's legal counsel raising concerns about media regulations. The court rebuked the broadcasting of derogatory material by TV channels and questioned the ban on reporting court proceedings imposed by PEMRA.

In the end, Kamal's apology was not accepted, and Vawda was given time to reconsider his response. The court directed the channels to reply to the notices within two weeks and requested PEMRA to address the ban on reporting court proceedings. The next hearing is set for June 28, following a one-week extension granted to Vawda to submit a revised reply.

The Supreme Court's firm stance against disrespectful behavior towards the judiciary through media channels underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law and maintaining decorum in public discourse. This case serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with freedom of speech and the need to exercise it responsibly.