Justice Ijazul Ahsan, a member of the three-judge committee responsible for assigning cases to different benches of the Supreme Court, raised objections regarding the formation of benches for hearing appeals against the Supreme Court’s verdict on military trials of civilians and petitions filed by Justice Sayyed Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi.
In his letter to the secretary of the judges’ committee, Justice Ahsan emphasized the need for transparency and adherence to the rule of seniority in hearing cases. He expressed regret that two special benches formed for these significant cases were not constituted by the committee, questioning their setup process.
Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa responded to Justice Ahsan’s objections, stating that the allegations contradicted facts and records. CJP Isa highlighted his availability for consultation, noting that Justice Ahsan had not reached out with his concerns. He defended his actions, referencing his commitment to consulting with senior colleagues on the constitution of benches and fixation of cases, a principle he had emphasized since assuming the office. CJP Isa also mentioned that the decisions and workings of the committee were documented and made public on the Supreme Court’s website.
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CJP Isa pointed out that several committee meetings were delayed or cancelled, often due to Justice Ahsan’s unavailability. He stressed that benches were formed with equality and respect for all judges, and special benches were not created for specific cases or to include or exclude certain judges.
Concluding his response, CJP Isa expressed his willingness to convene a committee meeting to consider any suggestions Justice Ahsan might have for the reconstitution of benches, reaffirming his commitment to transparency and fair judicial processes.
