Contempt proceedings initiated against Masood ur Rehman Abbasi on account of derogatory and contemptuous language vs N/A
This matter concerns the initiation of contempt of court proceedings against Masood-ur-Rehman Abbasi following a speech containing allegedly indecent, disrespectful, and scandalous remarks directed at the Chief Justice of Pakistan. The Supreme Court of Pakistan, upon taking cognizance of these remarks, determined that they prima facie constitute contempt of court. Consequently, the Court directed the issuance of a show-cause notice to the respondent, requiring him to explain why he should not be punished under the relevant legal provisions. Furthermore, the Court ordered the Inspector General of Police, Sindh, to ensure service of the notice and the respondent's appearance. Additionally, the Court directed the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to provide all records and data concerning the speech. The Attorney General for Pakistan was also issued a notice to assist the Court in the proceedings. The matter was adjourned for further hearing to address the contempt allegations.
- Does the issuance of a show-cause notice for contempt of court require the respondent to appear before the Supreme Court?
- Can the Supreme Court direct law enforcement agencies to secure evidence regarding a speech alleged to be contemptuous?
- Is the Attorney General for Pakistan required to assist the Court in contempt proceedings under Order XXVII-A of the Code of Civil Procedure 1908?
- Article 204, Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan 1973
- Section 3, Contempt of Court Ordinance 2003
- Order XXVII-A, Code of Civil Procedure 1908
ORDER
It has come to our notice that a speech has been delivered by Masood-ur-Rehman Abbasi, General Secretary , PPP, PS-1 14, Karachi in which he has made indecent and disrespectful remarks about the Hon'ble Chief Justice of Pakistan that, on the face of it, appear to be derogatory and scandalous. Prima facie, we consider such blatant remarks made by him to constitute contempt of Court under the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the law. Accordingly , let a show cause notice be issued to him under Article 204 of the Constitution read with Section 3 of the Contempt of Court Ordinance, 2003 to file his reply and show caus e why he may not be proceeded against and punished in accordance with law .
2. The Inspector General of Police, Sindh is directed to ensure service of such notice upon the said Masood ur Rehman Abbasi and to make certain his appearance before this Court on the next date of hearing. Notice shall also be issued to PEMRA and FIA to furnish all the relevant record, data and information in respect of the said speech made by Masood ur Rehman Abbasi.
3. Notice be also issued to the learned Attorney General for Pakistan in terms of Order XXVII-A CPC to assist the Court on the next date of hearing.
4. Relist on 28.06.2021 revisions by the competent authorities. Therefore, it is advisable to consult the official sources or legal professionals for the most up-to-date and accurate information.