C.P. No. 3506/2020
5
Article 19A is therefore not limited to the access to information from
public bodies as envisaged under the Right to Access of Information Act,
2017 but also includes media content disseminated to the public as an
integral part of “information.”
So in the public space, the freedom of
expression of one becomes the right to information of another. While one
has the freedom to express oneself, the other has the right to have access
and receive such information. If an individual has the right to express
their opinions and ideas, others have the right to hear them and be
informed. In this way, the right to receive information can be seen as a
way to ensure that the right to freedom of expression is fully realized. Both
these fundamental rights complement each other.
7.
“Expression” in the context of freedom of expression (Article
19), refers to the act of conveying thoughts, ideas, emotions, beliefs, or
opinions through various forms of communication. This can include: (i)
spoken or written words like speeches, conversations, books, articles, and
social media
posts; (ii) artistic works such as painting, drawing,
sculpture, music, dance, theater and film can be ways to express
thoughts, ideas, or emotions; and (iii) symbolic actions that can take the
form of gestures, clothing choices, or other actions that convey meaning,
like protest marches or flag burning. Freedom of expression is a
fundamental human right that allows individuals to openly communicate
their thoughts and ideas without fear of censorship, discrimination, or
punishment. It is essential for the healthy functioning of a democratic
society to encourage exchange of ideas, fosters debate and allow for the
development of diverse opinions and perspectives.
8.
facts
"Information", on the other hand, generally refers to data,
or
knowledge
that
have
been
organized,
processed,
and
communicated in various formats to help people understand or make
decisions about a particular topic or issue. Information can come from a
variety of sources, such as books, articles, websites, social media,
databases, speeches, videos, images, or audio recordings. Having "access
to information", typically refers to the ability of individuals or groups to
find, obtain and use information effectively and efficiently. This helps
build a more informed, inclusive, cultured and a tolerant society.
9.
PEMRA on the one hand has to ensure that the freedom of
expression through media broadcast is enhanced without infringing the
reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of the glory of Islam
or the integrity, security or defense of Pakistan, friendly relations with