Trial court ordered to decide Singer Ali Zafar’s defamation case against Meesha Shafi within 30 days

2026-01-28 - 10:21

LAHORE – The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Wednesday issued a key order in the defamation case filed by prominent singer Ali Zafar against actress and singer Meesha Shafi, instructing the trial court to deliver its verdict within 30 days. The court dismissed Meesha Shafi’s petition challenging a trial court order that barred her from making statements against Ali Zafar in the media or on social media until the case is decided. Justice Ahmed Nadeem Arshad observed that the restriction imposed by the trial court is legal and valid and cannot be altered. The court observed that public statements during ongoing proceedings could negatively impact the dignity of the parties involved and the judicial process, potentially resulting in a “media trial.” The court added that while freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it is not absolute, and reasonable restrictions may be imposed to protect justice and ensure a fair trial. Ali Zafar had filed the defamation case against Meesha Shafi in 2018, claiming that she made false and baseless allegations of sexual harassment against him, which damaged his reputation and business. He had also sought Rs1 billion in damages from the court. Actress Sarwat Gilani shares painful story behind nose surgery