Punjab Defamation Act 2024 challenged in LHC

LAHORE: Just a few hours after the Punjab Defamation Bill 2024 became an act it was challenged in the Lahore High Court.

The petition has been filed in the Lahore High Court by journalists Jafar Ahmed Yar and Raja Riaz through Advocate Nadeem Sarwar against the Punjab defamation act.

In the petition, the Punjab chief minister and governor through principal secretary and Punjab government have been made parties. 

The petitioner has taken the stance that the defamation law violates the constitution and law. A new law cannot be made in the presence of the defamation ordinance and the defamation act. 

Controversial Punjab Defamation Bill, 2024 becomes a law

The petitioner said the government did not consult with the journalists while enacting the new law. He said the defamation law was brought in haste to curb the freedom of journalists and media. 

The petitioner prayed to the court to declare the defamation law null and void and stop its implementation till a final decision on the petition. 

Earlier, the Governor House confirmed signing the Defamation Bill by Acting Punjab Governor Malik Ahmed Khan. 

A summary to the effect has been sent to the Ministry of Law for its gazette notification. After issuance of the notification, the defamation law will formally come into force in Punjab and will be applicable on every citizen.