PTI Spokesperson’s for the PTI said that a local court in Islamabad extended Rauf Hassan’s physical remand by two days. That very day, the PTI web-based entertainment lobbyist, Syeda Arooba Kanwal, was sent on legal remand during this consultation. This action was taken as part of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) investigation that is currently going on.
Proceedings in District and Sessions Courts Islamabad
In the District and Sessions Courts of Islamabad, the FIA presented Rauf Hassan and other individuals before Duty Judge Mureed Abbas after completing their initial three-day physical remand. The prosecution has charged Rauf Hassan and others under the PECA Act, alleging the dissemination of anti-state content.
Rauf Hassan’s Case PTI Spokesperson’s
During the hearing, the FIA prosecutor argued for an extension of Rauf Hassan’s remand, citing the need to conduct a forensic examination of transcripts related to anti-state videos. The prosecutor requested an additional eight days, emphasizing that the PECA Act permits up to 30 days of remand.
Judge Mureed Abbas inquired about the evidence against Rauf Hassan, explicitly asking if he had received a visa or ticket from India and if there was a chat record with Rahul. The FIA prosecutor confirmed that Rauf Hassan had received a travel ticket from India. In his defense, Rauf Hassan explained that he runs a regional think tank and that Rahul, who resides in England, had invited him to Bahrain as a guest speaker.
Syeda Arooba Kanwal’s PTI Spokesperson’s
The court also heard the case of Syeda Arooba Kanwal, a PTI social media activist accused of handling the party’s X account. The FIA prosecutor noted that Arooba had yet to surrender the social media accounts. PTI’s legal counsel argued that Arooba manages the accounts as part of her employment duties and that the case heavily relies on mobile phone evidence, all currently in FIA custody.
Defense Arguments PTI Spokesperson’s
. Advocate Ali Bukhari, representing the defendants, sought to discharge all arrested individuals from the case, asserting that the prosecution’s case is primarily based on confiscated mobile phones.
Freedom of Speech
During the proceedings, the FIA prosecutor emphasized balancing freedom of speech with national security concerns. The prosecutor argued that while individuals have the right to express their opinions, the state’s security must be a primary consideration. Rauf Hassan countered by stating he was not responsible for social media activities.
Court’s Decision PTI Spokesperson’s
After hearing the arguments from both sides, Judge Mureed Abbas reserved the decision on the FIA’s request for extended physical remand. Subsequently, the court announced its decision, approving a two-day physical remand for Rauf Hassan and handing him over to the FIA. Meanwhile, Syeda Arooba Kanwal was sent on judicial remand.
Implications of the Decision PTI Spokesperson’s
This decision highlights Pakistan’s ongoing scrutiny of social media activities in light of political dissent and national security. The utilization of PECA Act for this situation features the legitimate system utilized by the state to control online substances and address issues connected with cybercrime.
Conclusion
The extension of Rauf Hassan’s remand and the judicial remand of Syeda Arooba Kanwal reflect the court’s approach to handling cases involving allegations of anti-state activities and social media management. As the investigation continues, the balance between freedom of expression and national security remains critical in legal proceedings.
