Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, presiding over a six-member bench at the Supreme Court, has announced the court’s firm stance against any unconstitutional actions by the country’s army. The resolve came during the hearing of pleas against the trial of civilians in military courts. Bandial sought assurance from Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan that the military trials would cease. Awan confirmed there was no intention to subvert the Constitution and the law. The hearing was then adjourned indefinitely.
Petition Against Amendments to the Official Secrets Act
The hearing also saw petitioner Aitzaz Ahsan bringing attention to proposed changes to the Official Secrets Act 1923. He noted that the amendments empowered intelligence agencies to conduct raids and arrests without restriction, including the power to enter residences without search warrants. He called for a full virtual court hearing on the issue. However, Chief Justice Bandial stated that action could only be taken once the bill had been passed.
Pleas Against Military Trials of Civilians
Following a violent riot on May 9, the government decided to hold military court trials for those responsible for damaging and attacking military installations. This move was seen as controversial by both government and military officials. In response, several petitions were filed challenging the constitutionality of trying civilians in military courts, including by PTI Chairman Imran Khan, legal expert Aitzaz Ahsan, and five civil society members. Former Chief Justice and lawyer, Siddiqi also represented five civil society members seeking to have the trial of civilians in military courts declared illegal.
