Chief Justice Faez Isa firmly opposes the cessation of criticism, emphasizing that the constitution upholds the freedom of the press

The Supreme Court (SC) has directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to promptly retract notices sent to journalists engaged in a “malicious campaign” against the judiciary and institutions on social media, according to Geo News.

In a case concerning the harassment of journalists by the FIA, a three-member bench of the apex court, led by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, presided over the proceedings.

CJP Isa conveyed to Attorney General of Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Usman Awan that while verbal abuse was a separate matter, the FIA should refrain from taking action against journalists, particularly in response to criticism.

The chief justice stressed his strong opposition to curtailing criticism, citing the constitution’s protection of press freedom. He expressed, “I don’t care if you make fun of me, but if you make fun of the judiciary, the country will suffer. You can criticize the Supreme Court, but the Constitution also has some limitations.”

CJP Isa added, “If you think that you are benefiting me or the Supreme Court by stopping criticism, then you are harming [the institution].”

Furthermore, he emphasized that while media persons are allowed to criticize, incitement is a different matter. “We can never restrain a common man or a journalist from criticizing,” he stated.

Justice Musarrat Hilali noted that fair criticism is acceptable, but raised concerns about the inappropriate language used.