The Islamabad High Court has ordered the removal of YouTuber Rajab Butt’s name from the passport control list. The court directed authorities to immediately remove his name unless another valid legal restriction exists.
Justice Muhammad Azam Khan issued a detailed six-page judgment on the matter. He stated that the authority to place names on the passport control list is not unlimited.
Moreover, the court stressed that such authority must always be exercised in a fair and lawful manner. It cannot be used arbitrarily or without proper justification.
Fundamental Right to Free Movement Highlighted
The court noted that placing a person on the passport control list directly impacts fundamental rights. In particular, it restricts the constitutional right to free movement.
Therefore, the court emphasized that strong legal grounds are required for such restrictions. Authorities must justify every inclusion with valid reasoning.
Additionally, the court explained that the purpose of the list is specific. It is mainly used to ensure appearance before investigative agencies or courts.
However, once that purpose is achieved, the restriction cannot continue indefinitely. Keeping someone on the list without reason violates legal principles.
Court Directs Immediate Action
The court instructed authorities to remove Rajab Butt’s name from the passport control list. This order applies unless another competent court has imposed a separate restriction.
Furthermore, the court emphasized immediate compliance with the ruling. It reinforced that administrative actions must remain within legal boundaries.
Ongoing Legal Cases Against Rajab Butt
This decision comes shortly after other legal developments involving the YouTuber.
A Karachi sessions court recently revoked his interim pre-arrest bail.
That case relates to allegations of hurting religious sentiments. The bail was cancelled after he failed to appear before the court.
In addition, Rajab Butt faces another case involving online content. He has been accused of promoting gambling and betting applications.
Earlier Cybercrime Allegations
Previously, the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency registered a case against him. The case involves allegations of promoting gambling-related platforms through social media.
According to the FIR, he used online videos and advertisements for promotion. These activities allegedly encouraged users to invest money in betting apps.
Authorities claim that many users suffered financial losses as a result. Investigations in this matter are still ongoing.
Conclusion
The court ruling reinforces the importance of legal limits on travel restrictions. It also highlights the protection of fundamental rights under constitutional law.
Meanwhile, Rajab Butt continues to face multiple legal proceedings in different courts. These cases remain under investigation and judicial review.
