The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday directed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to submit its response in a petition seeking the blocking of former prime minister Imran Khan’s account on X, formerly known as Twitter.
The case was heard by Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir, who reviewed the petition filed by Advocate Ghulam Murtaza. During the proceedings, the court noted that PTI had not yet submitted a written reply and ordered the party to file its response before the next hearing.
The court also reissued notices to PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, directing him to submit comments in his capacity as the head of the party. Representatives, including Khalid Yousaf Chaudhry and Murtaza Tori, appeared before the court on behalf of the petitioner.
During the hearing, Justice Tahir made observations regarding previous court decisions and discussed issues related to jail-linked matters. The court also emphasized the need for proper legal representation from relevant government institutions.
Officials from the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) were instructed to ensure that a designated law officer appears during future proceedings. The court stressed that appropriate legal officers should represent concerned departments to facilitate effective handling of the case.
Justice Tahir further stated that specific legal questions would be framed at the next hearing, and the relevant regulatory authorities would be required to provide detailed responses.
The petition concerns the alleged operation and use of Imran Khan’s social media account while he remains incarcerated. The matter has attracted attention due to its legal and political implications, particularly regarding responsibility for content posted on the platform.
After issuing the necessary directions, the Islamabad High Court adjourned the hearing until September 10, when PTI and other concerned parties are expected to submit their responses and assist the court in addressing the legal questions involved in the case.