ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has halted the validity of the Council of Islamic Ideology’s (CII) opinion regarding Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza in a case related to blasphemy allegations.
The decision was issued through a formal written order on November 12, and the court instructed that the CII’s opinion remain suspended until the next hearing. The suspension has now been extended until December 4.
Furthermore, the court clarified that the CII’s opinion cannot be cited or referenced in any judicial proceedings during this time. It also directed authorities, including the FIA, police, and other relevant agencies, to clarify the limits under which any opinions issued by the CII may be considered valid.This case was initiated by Dr. Muhammad Salim Khaki, who challenged the CII’s stance concerning Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza.
Earlier, police registered a case against Mirza following his detention under the Maintenance of Public Order (3MPO). Jhelum Police confirmed that an FIR was filed against Mirza at the City Police Station based on a complaint from a local citizen.The FIR was filed under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and also invoked Section 295C of the Pakistan Penal Code. To prevent any unrest, authorities sealed Mirza’s religious academy in Jhelum.
Additionally, law enforcement personnel were deployed around Mirza’s residence and his academy in Jhelum to maintain order.The FIR came shortly after Mirza was detained under Section 3 of the 3MPO, following protests and complaints from various religious groups demanding action against him.Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza, renowned for his online religious and social lectures, has a YouTube following of over 3.1 million subscribers.
In March 2021, Mirza narrowly escaped an assassination attempt when an unidentified attacker tried to stab him at his academy. The assailant was later apprehended, and Mirza sustained minor injuries.
