Peshawar High Court upholds fine in landmark defamation case
A landmark Peshawar High Court ruling notes that constitutional free speech rights must be balanced against an individual's right to dignity and reputation.
Peshawar High Court dismissed an appeal against a Rs0.5 million defamation decree issued by a Swabi district court.
The court ruled that Article 19 free speech protections are subject to reasonable legal restrictions, including the Defamation Ordinance, 2002.
Official written complaints sent to police or administration count as 'publication' under defamation law if allegations are false.
Accusing individuals of land grabbing without proof directly imputes moral turpitude and constitutes libel per se.