The Supreme Court issued a comprehensive statement addressing the misrepresentation of its recent decision by various media outlets, emphasizing the need to rectify misunderstandings circulating in electronic, print, and social media platforms.
In the statement, the Supreme Court refuted claims suggesting deviation from the Second Constitutional Amendment regarding the definition of Muslim, clarifying that erroneous impressions were being created regarding the application of provisions related to crimes against religion in the Pakistan Penal Code.
The Court highlighted that even if the FIR is deemed valid, it does not warrant the applicability of said provisions, noting that perceptions of abolishing these provisions are entirely misguided. Instead, the Court underscored the relevance of Section 5 of the Criminal Amendment Act, 1932, which stipulates imprisonment for publishing prohibited material.
Furthermore, the statement emphasized the Court’s adherence to Islamic principles, constitutional provisions, and legal frameworks in delivering justice. It condemned the manipulation of emotions and the disregard for Islamic injunctions in such cases, emphasizing the importance of upholding constitutional rights while ensuring compliance with the law, public order, and morals.
The Supreme Court referenced previous landmark decisions, including Zaheeruddin v. State, where it extensively incorporated Islamic teachings, judicial precedents, and constitutional provisions to interpret laws in alignment with Islamic principles and legal requirements.
Moreover, the Court reiterated its openness to constructive criticism and scholarly debate, emphasizing the constitutional and legal avenues available for reform. It condemned any organized campaign against the judiciary without recourse to the constitutional review process, warning against undermining the judiciary’s pivotal role in safeguarding the rights of the people as enshrined in the Constitution.
