FBR restrained from discussing case with media

Karachi

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and its directorate intelligence and investigation (Inland Revenue Department) were, by the Sindh High Court (SHC), ordered to not disclose any information, observation or speculations  to the media regarding allegations of Piler (Pakistan Institute of Labour Education and Research) having received funds from Indian intelligence agency RAW.

Following a hearing of the suit, filed by Piler – a non-government organisation - through its lawyer Rasheed A Razvi, Justice Muhammad Safi Siddiqui issued notices to the federal deputy attorney general for January 27.

The plaintiff in the petition maintained that Piler was a leading NGO which aimed at promoting democracy and effective labour employment for the advancement of a socially just and equitable society for the past 33 years.

It has actively participated in promoting labour activities as well as upgrading their living status, read the petition.

The court was also informed of the organisation’s legal assistance in the Baldia factory fire case, as well as provision of financial relief to the families of the victims as per the orders of the SHC.

The counsel argued that under Articles 4 and 9 of the Constitution of Pakistan, the alleged information could not be disclosed to the media as it would be harmful for the organisation’s reputation and safety; leaking the information was a clear violation of these articles.

The Article 4 deals with the right of individuals to be dealt with in accordance with law and Article 9 pertains to fundamental right of a security of a person.

The organisation was aggrieved against propagation of the allegations allegedly following an investigation by the FBR; no final declarations with respect to the charges had so far been handed down against it.  The news was published in some leading television channels and local newspapers.