2 weeks Ago By Shahid Rao
ISLAMABAD - While hearing the bail cancellation of 9th May rioters, the Supreme Court of Pakistan Tuesday said that the courts cannot remain silent in the face of injustice. A three-judge bench, headed by Justice Muhammad Hashim Khan Kakar, and comprising Justice Sala-huddin Panhwar, and Justice Ibrahim Ishtiaq conducted hearing of the Punjab government’s appeal against the acquittal of Sanam Javed and Sheikh Rashid bail cancellation in May 9 cases. During the hearing, Additional Prosecutor General Punjab informed the bench that PTI leader Sanam Javed had filed a petition against her remand in the Lahore High Court, which allegedly exceeded its authority by acquitting her from the case altogether.
Justice Hashim stated that the apex court had already issued instructions in such cases to be decided within four months, questioning why the trial was still ongoing. He emphasized that the High Court can act even if it receives a letter indicating injustice. “Courts cannot remain silent in the face of injustice,” he said.
Unknown gunmen kill 28 tourists in IIOJK Justice Salahuddin added that the High Court holds suo motu powers in criminal revision cases. Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim questioned the Punjab government’s timing, asking, “Did you just remember after a year that the accused committed a crime?” He remarked that at this rate, anyone—including himself—could be named in the May 9 cases. The court subsequently adjourned the hearing for an indefinite period.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government sought time to present evidence in its appeal against the acquittal of Sheikh Rashid in the GHQ attack case. Justice Hashim Kakar expressed strong displeasure, warning that such delays would not be tolerated. “If you want adjournments, don’t come to this court,” he said sternly.
He added that adjournments are only granted in cases of death—either of the judge, lawyer, or accused. When the special prosecutor requested permission to present confessional statements, Justice Kakar responded harshly, “Fear God — Sheikh Rashid has been elected MNA number of times, and now where he would go away?” Pakistan, Turkiye to further deepen bilateral cooperation The court made it clear that political arguments would not be entertained without fulfilling legal re-quirements. Later, the bench deferred hearing of the case till the next week.
Tags: riots courts.
