BHC suspends DC prior permission requirement for events at QPC

QUETTA: The Balochistan High Court (BHC) has suspended the Deputy Commissioner Quetta’s order requiring prior permission to hold events at Quetta Press Club, citing a violation of constitutional rights to free speech.

A two-member divisional bench, comprising Justice Rozi Khan Bareech and Justice Sardar Ahmed Halimi, issued the interim order in a constitutional petition, suspending the Deputy Commissioner’s directive dated August 27, 2024. The case has been adjourned for one week. During the April 15 hearing, the Assistant Advocate General (AAG) requested time to justify the legal basis for restricting organizations or political parties from holding events at the Press Club without obtaining NOC. Today, the court found the submitted response unsatisfactory. The bench noted that such restrictions contravene Article 19 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and expression, and freedom of the press. The AAG has been directed to submit a detailed report at the next hearing. A notice has also been issued to the Secretary of the Quetta Press Club to present a report by or before the next hearing.