The Sindh High Court (SHC) has issued notices to the cabinet division, ministry of interior, and other respondents regarding a petition challenging a federal government’s decision to grant the country’s premier intelligence agency powers to intercept calls and messages. The petitioner, Abdul Ahad Ahmar Khan, argued that the decision violates fundamental rights to privacy and dignity as protected by Articles 9 and 14 of the Constitution.
He highlighted that the authorization given to the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) through a July 8 notification lacked limitations and safeguards similar to those in place in the United Kingdom and the United States. The petitioner emphasized the breach of international obligations, citing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and a 1998 judgement of the Supreme Court.
Mr. Ahmar urged the court to declare the decision ultra vires the Constitution and suspend it until the petition is resolved. The court has scheduled a hearing for August 16th, 2024, and issued notices to the respondents and legal representatives.
Published in Dawn, July 23rd, 2024
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