Audio leaks case: IHC issues contempt notices against IB, FIA and PTA chiefs

The Islamabad High Court has quashed objection petitions targeting Justice Babar Sattar, labeling them as “malicious” and driven by “bad faith.”

Additionally, the court has issued preliminary contempt notices to the heads of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).

Furthermore, the court has levied a fine of Rs 500,000 on the petitioners for lodging “frivolous” applications, alleged attempts to pressure the judge and halt the case’s proceedings. It noted a concerted effort by the IB, FIA, PTA, and PEMRA, jointly filing applications in a bid to sway the proceedings.

Moreover, an order has been issued for the officer facilitating the criminal petition’s filing to bear the cost personally, highlighting the significance of diligence and responsibility in legal processes.

In a comprehensive 40-page ruling, Justice Babar Sattar affirmed that the objection pleas aimed at halting the hearing were malicious, reflecting an assault on the judiciary’s autonomy.

The court reiterated its commitment to ensuring all parties receive a fair hearing in the case concerning citizens’ phone tapping, which has shed light on the federal government’s lapses in safeguarding constitutional rights.