LAHORE: A full bench of the Lahore High Court Monday imposed a ban on speeches of Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) leader Altaf Hussain.

The bench directed Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to ensure strict implementation of its orders. The bench sought reports from Secretary Interior, Secretary Cabinet Division and other respondents besides seeking record of Altaf’s speeches and his nationalities, by September 7.

The bench summoned Additional Attorney General and Advocate General Punjab on the next date of hearing.

The bench comprising Justice Syed Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi, Justice Mazhar Iqbal Sidhu and Justice Erum Sajad Gull passed the orders while hearing three identical petitions filed by Malik Maqsood Ahmad Awan, Aftab Ahmad Virk and Abdullah Malik for proceedings against Altaf Hussain under Article 6 of the Constitution. The petitioners through their petitions submitted that Altaf Hussain’s speeches were tantamount to treason as these were not only anti-Pakistan but anti-armed forces as well.

They pleaded the court for issuing directions to initiate proceedings against Altaf Hussain under Article 6 of the constitution. They also pleaded for proceedings against MQM Rabita Committee members and Parliamentarians under Articles 62 and 63 of the constitution.—APP

BR staff reporter adds: The petitioners claimed that the party chief was a British national and no foreign citizen could become head of a political party in Pakistan.

A law officer told the bench that the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority had already banned his speeches.