The Lahore High Court has directed PMLN leader Uzma Bukhari to file a formal complaint with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) regarding an alleged indecent video circulating on social media. The case unfolded during a hearing presided over by Chief Justice Lahore High Court, Miss Alia Neelam. Bukhari's application implicated FIA, the Ministry of Interior, and other unidentified parties. Bukhari's legal team asserted that a woman named Falak Javed uploaded fabricated videos targeting her on Twitter. The petition further alleged Javed's involvement in "anti-national activities," without elaborating on the nature of these activities. Bukhari sought a two-pronged approach from the court. Firstly, she requested the inclusion of Javed's name on the Exit Control List (ECL), effectively barring her from leaving the country. Secondly, she urged the court to mandate an immediate investigation by FIA into the alleged video's authenticity.

Expressing empathy towards Bukhari's distress, Chief Justice Neelam advised her to approach FIA directly and present all evidence in their possession. The Chief Justice also directed the public prosecutor to notify FIA regarding Bukhari's application on the same day. In a significant move to protect Bukhari's privacy, the Lahore High Court ordered the immediate removal of her photos from social media platforms. The court further instructed Bukhari to amend her petition. The hearing also addressed Bukhari's lawyer's concerns regarding Javed's potential attempt to flee the country. Justice Neelam suggested filing a separate application with the relevant authority to place Javed on the ECL. This development comes amidst a larger societal debate concerning the misuse of social media and the dissemination of fake content. The court's directive for FIA involvement underscores its commitment to addressing such issues and ensuring a fair investigation.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan