Journalists Challenge Punjab Defamation Act 2024 in Lahore High Court

Senior journalists have approached the Lahore High Court to challenge the Punjab Defamation Act 2024, which was passed by the Punjab Assembly amid strong protests from opposition members and the media. The journalists argue that the Act is unconstitutional and restricts free speech.

The petitioners, represented by lawyer Asad Jamal, claim that the Act conflicts with the Defamation Ordinance 2002 and violates fundamental rights guaranteed in Articles 10A, 18, 19, 19A, and 25 of the Constitution. They also argue that the Punjab province lacks the legislative competence to regulate electronic and digital media.

Justice Muhammad Amjad Rafiq will hear the petition, which seeks to declare the Act void and without legal effect. The journalists believe that the Act aims to stifle free speech and dissent, having a chilling impact on the freedom of speech of journalists.