In Islamabad, the Supreme Court has hinted at convening a full court session to address the automatic notice case prompted by a letter from six judges of the Islamabad High Court.
The Chief Justice emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards any encroachment on judicial independence.
A larger seven-member bench, led by Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa, presided over the hearing, with Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Jamal Khan Mandukhel, Justice Athar Manullah, Justice Musrat Hilali, and Justice Naeem Akhtar included.
During the session, the Chief Justice stressed the importance of adhering to procedure, stating that decisions are governed by established practices, not external pressures. Advocates, including Hamid Khan, pressed to be heard, but the Chief Justice underscored the authority of the court over procedural matters.
The Chief Justice highlighted the court’s swift response upon receiving the judges’ letter, emphasizing the paramount importance of judicial independence. He underscored that any attack on this independence would be vehemently opposed by the judiciary.
In response to the Attorney General’s remarks, the Chief Justice reiterated the judiciary’s commitment to constitutional principles and clarified the delineation of authority between the government and the judiciary.
The Attorney General, while emphasizing the government’s respect for judicial independence, pointed out instances of past actions and urged a comparison with the present government’s stance.
The Chief Justice reiterated the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the Constitution and emphasized the need for a balanced relationship between the state and its citizens.
The judges discussed the need for vigilance against external pressures and stressed the importance of establishing robust procedures to safeguard judicial independence.
The session concluded with plans for further hearings and the consideration of forming a judicial commission to address the concerns raised by the High Court judges’ letter. Former Chief Justice Tasadeq Hussain Jilani’s acceptance of an apology was also noted in connection with the formation of an inquiry commission.