SHC asks FIA, agencies to keep vigil on anti-state activities

Blasphemy cases being designated for investigation by officers at SP level are handled by inspector-level officers

KARACHI:

A Sindh High Court (SHC) bench has underlined the need for the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and sensitive agencies to monitor online activities detrimental to national security.

While announcing a detailed judgment on the bail application of the accused, Samiullah, in a case related to the publication of blasphemous material, Justice Omar Sial expressed concern over the fact that, despite cases of blasphemy being designated for investigation by an officer of SP level, the case of Samiullah was handled by an inspector-level officer.

Justice Sial pointed out that according to FIA the WhatsApp group distributing blasphemous material was traced to an unknown location. Accused Samiullah was granted bail on November 22, following a case filed by Hafiz Ehtisham.

Read Denmark's parliament adopts law banning desecration of Holy Quran

Court moved against non-supply of water

Meanwhile, residents of Gulshan-e-Jamal filed a petition in the SHC against the lack of water supply to their housing society. The petition argues that it is the state's responsibility to ensure its provision of water to its citizens.

The petition urges the relevant authorities to mandate a new water pipeline for the area, offering a viable solution to the long-standing issue. The petitioner has named the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board (KWSB), Cantonment Board Faisal (CBF), Sindh government, and others as parties in the petition.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 24^th, 2023.