More arguments sought in PTI case

LAHORE

The Lahore High Court full bench Wednesday sought more arguments on a petition against PTI Nov-2 Islamabad protest (lockdown). 

As the bench resumed hearing, Advocate AK Dogar argued on behalf of the petitioner that Imran Khan had constantly been sought to overthrow the elected federal government with the help of ‘third umpire.’ He said if Islamabad was shut down, the Supreme Court, parliament, cabinet secretariat and all offices of the government would become dysfunctional. He argued that the fundamental right of speech and expression under Article 19 of the Constitution was not absolute right but subject to security, integrity, defence of the country, public order and morality. He said opposition has to be faithful to the government and should not try to destabilise it. He said Imran Khan did not fall within the definition of loyalty as he had been inciting public for civil disobedience. He argued that undermining the Constitution was equal to subversion and any attempt to weaken a political system amounts to subversion. Advocate Dogar said in our parliamentary system the opposition has to be loyal to federal government as required by the article 5.

The bench comprising Justice Shahid Hameed Dar, Justice Muhammad Anwarul Haw and Justice Muhammad Qasim Khan adjourned further hearing for Thursday (today). A request for adjournment was filed on behalf of Advocate Ahmad Awais, counsel of PTI.