Islamabad: Leader of the Opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has assured that Article 6 cannot be imposed and vowed to challenge any attempt in the Supreme Court. Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Abbasi argued that smartphones now encompass everything, storing all aspects of life within the device, thus potentially exposing mobile call recordings to grave risks. He criticized that no IT company in Pakistan would engage in business if data security isn’t ensured, questioning where investments would come from in such an environment.
Abbasi pointed out another law enacted by the Pakistan Peoples Party in late 2013, emphasizing that the current governments of PPP and PML-N have issued notes of fiction. He detailed that this Act provides a comprehensive mechanism for telephone tapping, involving 39 sections granting access to ISI, IB, police, and other military agencies. He criticized the current system’s efficacy and legality, suggesting it contradicts norms observed globally.
Regarding recent decisions affecting specific seats, Abbasi defended judicial rulings as straightforward and aligned with parliamentary and democratic principles. He cautioned against governmental restrictions on political parties, arguing that parliamentary debates are the appropriate forum for such discussions rather than press conferences.
Expressing concerns over recent governmental actions, Abbasi accused the current administration of undermining its mandate. He warned that deviation from polling stations would jeopardize national integrity and democracy. He concluded by reaffirming his stance against potential misuse of Article 6, vowing to send a reference to the Supreme Court if evidence supports an impeachment motion.