Key Takeaways
- Lahore High Court has issued notices to federal and local authorities regarding smart glasses.
- Petitioner argues smart glasses pose privacy concerns and may be banned.
- Respondents have until October 8 to submit their replies.
The Lahore High Court has issued notices to the federal government, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Ministry of Commerce, and other relevant authorities regarding a petition challenging the unregulated import and sale of smart glasses equipped with cameras and microphones.
The petition, filed by citizen Husnainul Abideen and represented by Advocate Shahram Saqi, highlights the potential privacy and constitutional concerns associated with these devices.
According to the petition, smart glasses like Ray-Ban Meta, which appear similar to ordinary eyewear, can photograph, record, and live-stream people within the wearer’s field of view without making the activity obvious.
The petitioner argues that these capabilities make smart glasses different from conventional smartphones and raise concerns under Articles 9 and 14 of the Constitution, which deal with liberty, dignity, and privacy.
The petition asks the court to declare the unrestricted use of camera-equipped smart glasses incompatible with constitutional protections and seeks directions to stop their imports, review PTA approvals, and prevent their use in sensitive locations such as courts, airports, and government offices.
The petitioner further requests the court to halt customs clearance of relevant consignments and direct the cybercrime authorities to disclose complaints involving such devices.
Chief Justice Aalia Neelum heard the public interest petition and issued notices to the respondents, directing them to submit their replies by October 8.
The petitioner’s counsel also referred to concerns raised by regulators in Ireland, Italy, and Germany, as well as restrictions on smart glasses in courts in England and Wales and New York.
The case highlights the growing debate around the use of smart glasses in Pakistan and the potential need for stricter regulations to protect privacy and constitutional rights.
