A case has been filed in the Civil Court seeking to quash the order issued by the Media Control Commission to remove a political cartoon published by Adhadhu.

In its petition, Adhadhu said the commission lacks legal authority to issue such orders, while there is also no basis to declare that the cartoon violates Islam.

The commission ordered Adhadhu to stop its political cartoon segment and to temporarily remove the cartoon published on January 22.

The commission said a decision on the political cartoon will be taken after reviewing the documents and information submitted by parties relevant to the case.

But Adhadhu said the Control Law, which was approved last year, does not contain a provision to allow the commission to take action before completing the investigation.

The lawsuit states that the commission shall act to ensure freedom of the press and freedom of expression to the widest extent guaranteed by the Constitution and laws.

The cartoon depicted a man being pickpocketed during a prayer congregation. Adhadhu said the intention of the cartoon was to highlight the prevalence of theft and corruption in society.

Adhadhu said the commission's order intends to stop freedom of expression within the boundaries of the Constitution and laws.

In a statement, Adhadhu also said a case will be filed at the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) because commission members had abused their authority.