LHC orders equal media coverage for all including Imran Khan in elections

LAHORE, Jan 31 : The Lahore High Court has issued a directive mandating equal media coverage for all candidates, including the founder chairman of PTI, Imran Khan, during the upcoming general elections. The court's written judgment on Wednesday emphasized the constitutional right of freedom of expression, stating that Article 19 obliges every citizen to enjoy various rights, including the freedom of expression.

The High Court, in its decision, underscored the significance of a fair and transparent election process, emphasizing that the election campaign and the publicity of manifestos are fundamental rights. The court maintained that true freedom of expression through an impartial media is essential for the conduct of equitable and transparent elections. It stated that without freedom of expression, elections cannot be deemed fair.

The order specifically directs equal media coverage for all candidates, referencing precedents set in the cases of Nawaz Sharif and Benazir Bhutto. This decision comes in response to the founder chairman of PTI, Imran Khan, challenging the lack of coverage on TV channels, seeking equitable representation in media during the election period.