LHC criticises FIA’s inaction in video case

Orders detailed report on pending similar cases

LAHORE:

Lahore High Court’s Chief Justice Aalia Neelum sharply criticised the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), remarking that it appears the agency’s role is limited to merely receiving complaints and then neglecting them.

The comments were made during a hearing of a plea concerning a fake video of provincial information minister Azma Zahid Bokhari.

Chief Justice Neelum demanded a comprehensive report from the FIA by August 2 (today), detailing the status of pending inquiries of a similar nature.

Dissatisfied with the report presented by the FIA’s assistant director, she remarked, “What do you expect people to do? Do you want them to take matters into their own hands?”

A law officer informed the court that a four-member Joint Investigation Team (JIT) had been formed and that letters had been sent to NADRA and other authorities for assistance.

Bokhari had approached the LHC, alleging that a fake inappropriate video of her had been circulated. She named the federal government, FIA, and PTI activist Falak Javed as respondents, accusing Javed of sharing the false video on July 24 on the social media platform X. The video was subsequently shared by hundreds, damaging the minister’s reputation.

The petitioner requested the court to order legal action against the PTI activist and others involved.