Importance Of Freedom Of Speech

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2. Constitutional Guarantee as to Freedom of Speech/Expression

i. The Constitution of Pakistan upholds the fundamentals for a vibrant democracy and guarantees freedom of expression and the basic premise for media freedom.

It is pleasantly surprising that the Constitution of Pakistan also provides Freedom of Speech/Expression under Article 19 as provided in the UDHR under its Article 19 which reads as follows:
“Article: 19 Freedom of speech, etc.
Every citizen shall have the right to freedom of speech and expression, and there shall be freedom of the press, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of the glory of Islam or the integrity, security or defence of Pakistan or any part thereof, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality, or in relation to contempt of court, [commission of] or incitement to an offence.”

“ [Article: 19-A. Right to Information.-
Every citizen shall have the right to have access to information in all matters of public importance subject to regulation and reasonable restrictions imposed by law.]”
3. Leading Judgments of Pakistan Courts

The issue of freedom of speech/expression came under consideration in the superior courts of Pakistan and dealt with delicate elaboration thereon in the judgments delivered. In order to understand the extent, scope and object of this very right and the obligation as to freedom of expression cast upon the media/press thereby, relevant excerpts from