Islamabad, Pakistan: In a landmark decision safeguarding press freedom, the Supreme Court (SC) on Monday ordered the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to withdraw notices issued to 65 individuals, including 47 journalists, for criticizing the judiciary.
Last week, the FIA sparked outrage by issuing summons notices to journalists and individuals over a perceived "malicious anti-judiciary campaign." The move drew sharp criticism from media groups and civil society, raising concerns about attempts to stifle dissent.
A three-member SC bench, led by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, heard the case. While acknowledging the importance of upholding the judiciary's dignity, the court ruled that journalists should not be harassed or intimidated for exercising their right to free speech and criticism.
