Designer Maria B, a renowned fashion figure, has addressed a defamation complaint from the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). Filed in August by Saima Butt, the complaint accuses her of using anti-transgender rhetoric on social media, allegedly defaming the transgender community.
Defense Based on Constitutional Rights
At a September 2 hearing with the NCCIA, Maria B was represented by her lawyer, Barrister Mian Ali Ashfaq. Her defense focuses on her constitutional right to free speech, as guaranteed by Article 19 of the Constitution.
- She argues that she expressed “reasonable opinions on subjects of public difficulty.”
- Claims her actions remained “within the ambit of lawful expression.”
- Asserts her posts were shared “in good faith and for the larger public good.”
Countering the Defamation Allegations
Maria B contends that the individuals in the disputed video were either barely visible or masked, making defamation unlikely. She suggests that the complaint aims to harass her with “malicious intent.”
Lahore Police and Case Dismissal
In August, the Lahore police charged about 60 transgender individuals at a private party labeled “objectionable.” This case was reportedly linked to Maria B’s social media activities. However, a magistrate dismissed these charges due to insufficient evidence.
Previous Anti-Transgender Remarks
Maria B has posted videos opposing “transgender activists” and criticized events for violating Pakistan’s “moral values.” She recently praised the ban on the Oscar-nominated film Joyland in Lahore, describing it as a “shameful transgender satanic show.”
Published by NENAgency — delivering reliable news and informed perspectives.
