The Lahore High Court on Monday issued notices to the federal government, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Ministry of Commerce and other authorities on a petition challenging the unregulated import and sale of smart glasses equipped with cameras and microphones.
Chief Justice Aalia Neelum heard the public interest petition filed by citizen Husnainul Abideen, who was represented by Advocate Shahram Saqi.
The petitioner argued that devices such as Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses look similar to ordinary eyewear but can photograph, record and live-stream people within the wearer’s field of view without making the activity obvious.
According to the petition, 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.
Smart Glasses Reportedly Available in Lahore
The petitioner’s counsel said Meta does not officially list Pakistan as a market for the glasses, but the devices are still openly available through online sellers and physical shops in Lahore, including outlets at Hafeez Centre.
He 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 petition asked the court to declare the unrestricted use of camera-equipped smart glasses incompatible with constitutional protections.
It also sought directions to stop their imports, review PTA approvals and prevent their use in sensitive locations including courts, airports and government offices.
The petitioner further asked the court to halt customs clearance of relevant consignments and direct the cybercrime authorities to disclose complaints involving such devices.
After hearing the initial arguments, Chief Justice Aalia Neelum issued notices to the respondents and directed them to submit their replies by October 8.
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