Justice Athar Manullah, a Supreme Court judge, asserted that had the media been free in 1971, the disintegration of Pakistan would not have occurred.
Addressing a workshop on journalist training in collaboration with the Pakistan Bar, Supreme Court Bar, and Press Association of the Supreme Court, Justice Athar Manullah emphasized the role of independent media in critiquing and prompting reforms. He highlighted the importance of transparency, stating that judges should not conceal their judgments.
Justice Athar Manullah identified two types of criticism faced by the judiciary: critique of deliberate decisions and criticism for not providing legal relief. He emphasized that judges should not fear criticism and should make decisions based on the constitution and laws, upholding their oath. According to him, judges are public property, and they should not attempt to influence court reporters. He stressed the significance of truth prevailing despite misinformation.
Reflecting on the impact of media freedom, Justice Athar Manullah suggested that if the media had been free in 1971, Pakistan might have remained united. He expressed the belief that truthful reporting could prevent division and the rise of divisive leaders. Justice Athar Manullah encouraged the expression of opinions, stating that it could contribute to building a great nation.
Discussing challenges faced by the judiciary, Justice Athar Manullah mentioned opposition to the Eighteenth Amendment and underscored the right to freedom of opinion. He urged judges to remain independent and unaffected by social media, emphasizing the importance of not suppressing expression. Justice Athar Manullah acknowledged the prevalence of criticism in today’s information age but stressed the need for public trust in the judiciary post-critique. He lamented the years spent under dictatorship where freedom of expression was limited.
