In a significant legal development, a District and Sessions Court in Islamabad has placed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Raoof Hasan on a 14-day judicial remand. Hasan, along with other suspects, faces allegations of involvement in anti-state propaganda.
Court Proceedings and Judicial Decisions
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) presented Hasan before District and Sessions Judge Shafiq Bhatti, seeking an additional five-day physical remand. However, Judge Bhatti rejected this request and instead approved a 14-day judicial remand. This decision followed a series of remand extensions since Hasan’s arrest last Monday.
Initially, Hasan was handed over to the FIA for a two-day remand, which was extended by three days and then again by two more days for further investigation. During the most recent hearing, the FIA’s prosecutor argued that a “technical report” indicated communication among the suspects, who were allegedly members of the PTI’s media cell. This, according to the prosecutor, necessitated further investigation.
Defense’s Argument and Health Concerns
Defense counsel Ali Zafar, a senior PTI leader and lawyer, opposed the FIA’s request for an extended physical remand, citing Hasan’s deteriorating health due to the prolonged custody. Zafar urged the court to allow Hasan a medical check-up, leading to the court’s order for immediate medical attention for Hasan.
Background and Allegations
The case revolves around the alleged involvement of PTI’s media cell members in orchestrating anti-state propaganda. According to the FIA, Hasan and his co-accused were part of a digital media operation aimed at undermining Pakistan’s integrity and inciting unrest. The FIR, filed on the complaint of CTD Inspector Sajid Ikram, names 12 suspects, including Hasan, and details their alleged activities.
Charges and Legal Context
The charges against the suspects include sections 9 (glorification of an offence), 10 (cyber-terrorism), and 11 (hate speech) of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca). These charges stem from allegations that the suspects used social media to promote anti-state sentiments and disrupt public order.
Investigative Findings
The investigation began with PTI activist Ahmad Waqas Janjua, who reportedly revealed that he and other media cell members, under Hasan’s direction, engaged in activities aimed at damaging Pakistan’s integrity. The FIA’s FIR states that these activities were coordinated daily, with both internal and external support, to incite public unrest and criticize the state and military.
Broader Implications
This case highlights the increasing scrutiny of digital media activities and their impact on national security. It underscores the legal and ethical responsibilities of media personnel and political activists in a digital age where information can rapidly influence public sentiment.