Programme against judiciary angers SC

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court (SC) has expressed resentment on a news channel and the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory (PEMRA) over a programme aired against the judiciary, Geo News reported Thursday.

A three-judge bench of the SC headed by Justice Jawwad S Khawaja was hearing the petition filed by the Independent Media Corporation (IMC) on behalf of Geo Network against the negative propaganda by other TV channels and for resumption of its transmission on cable networks.

During proceedings, Justice Jawwad questioned the regulatory body about its presence during propaganda against the judiciary. He said where PEMRA was when propaganda was aired against judiciary. He said “for God's sake recognize the right from wrong”.

PEMRA official Zahid Malik informed the court that they had forwarded the complaints to the department concerned after monitoring the said programme, adding he was hopeful of action being taken over it today (Thursday).

Moreover, Justice Jawwad S Khawaja refused to disassociate himself from the bench, hearing this case, saying a judge takes the decision to disassociate himself in accordance with the constitution. He said he had not received any complaint in that regard.

Justice Jawwad further said everyone should know that they would not let anyone cause a harm to the dignity of the Supreme Court. He said the court and judges would not be pressurized through offensive comments.

Earlier, Justice Jawwad S Khawaja inquired the Attorney General if anyone had any objection on his hearing the case including PEMRA, Federation or any other party. He said that it should be brought into his knowledge if anyone had any disagreement.