The PHC ECL travel ban ruling has declared that imposing a travel restriction without prior notice is illegal and unconstitutional. The Peshawar High Court held that no citizen can be placed on the Exit Control List (ECL) or any similar list without being informed or issued a show-cause notice.
In a 36-page judgment, the court stated that such actions violate fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution. It emphasised that authorities cannot restrict freedom of movement without a valid justification and due process.
Under the PHC ECL travel ban ruling, citizens must be informed within 24 hours if their names are added to the ECL or another travel restriction list. The court clarified that travel bans are permissible only in genuine national security emergencies.
Read: Peshawar High Court Suspends New Opposition Leader Appointments
The judgment noted that several petitioners faced difficulties while seeking overseas employment or returning to Pakistan. In many cases, individuals discovered their names on travel ban lists without any prior intimation.
The court also highlighted challenges faced by overseas Pakistanis. Some individuals were reportedly unable to renew official documents due to undisclosed travel restrictions.
Citing Articles 9 and 15 of the Constitution, the court reaffirmed the right to life, liberty, and freedom of movement. It was observed that the state has a responsibility to facilitate citizens rather than impose arbitrary restrictions.
The Federal Interior Secretary has been directed to submit a compliance report within 15 days. The court reiterated that any travel ban imposed without lawful grounds or due process is unconstitutional.
