On Thursday, the Supreme Court of Pakistan dismissed show-cause notices issued to 34 television channels following their unconditional apologies for airing live press conferences that included controversial and defamatory content about the judiciary. The press conferences, held by independent Senator Faisal Vawda and MQM MNA Mustafa Kamal, contained severe accusations against the judiciary and discussions on sub judice matters.
A four-member bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa, alongside Justices Irfan Saadat Khan, Naeem Akhtar Afghan, and Shahid Bilal Hassan, presided over the case.
The court resolved the matter after Faisal Siddiqui, representing 26 of the TV channels, informed the bench that his clients had filed a civil miscellaneous application (CMA) expressing an unconditional apology. Siddiqui assured the court that such incidents would not be repeated and that the channels involved were committed to following all legal protocols in the future.
In his statement, Siddiqui also noted that the TV channels would broadcast their apologies during prime-time slots, ensuring the public is made aware of their commitment to proper journalistic practices. Furthermore, if any inaccurate reporting occurs in the future, mechanisms would be established to address such errors.
The show-cause notices were initially issued on June 28 after the TV channels aired content that violated court protocols, prompting the Supreme Court to take action. All involved channels have now submitted their apologies, and the case has been officially closed.
During the hearing, Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) Chairman Shakeel Masud, along with Additional Attorney General Aamir Rehman and various legal representatives, were also present. Siddiqui emphasized that his clients recognized their mistake in broadcasting the press conferences, leaving themselves at the mercy of the court.
CJP Isa, in response to these apologies, questioned the role of TV channels in spreading disinformation and urged media outlets to act responsibly. He stressed that the court was not interested in punitive measures, but rather in ensuring responsible media coverage. The Chief Justice also noted that unchecked media sensationalism could harm the country more than external threats.
In a broader discussion about media ethics, CJP Isa drew a contrast between reporting standards in Pakistan and Europe, where false reporting has no place. He highlighted how ARY had faced a ban in the UK, yet continued to operate in Pakistan with full press freedom. The CJP criticized sensational journalism, pointing out that such practices often prioritize false news over facts.
Justice Isa also mentioned that court reporters used to be seasoned journalists, but this trend has shifted, leading to less accurate court reporting. He stressed the need for ethical journalism, especially in an age where false information can spread rapidly.
During the proceedings, PBA Chairman Shakeel Masud also pointed out that their internal board monitors news before it is aired. When asked if PBA oversees YouTubers, Masud clarified that their jurisdiction only covers TV channels. However, the CJP suggested that experienced journalists should help guide and mentor new media platforms like YouTube to ensure accurate and responsible reporting.
The court concluded that the press plays an essential role as the fourth pillar of the state, acting as a check on both the government and parliament. However, the CJP warned that true news can easily be overshadowed by false reporting, making it essential for the media to uphold its integrity.
