Islamabad: The Supreme Court has reserved judgment on the plea to form a full court in the case against the trial of civilians in military courts. The decision on the request will be announced tomorrow at 11:30 am. Chief Justice of Pakistan, Umar Atta Bandial, mentioned that if the consultation process is completed within 10 to 15 minutes, it will be informed immediately; otherwise, the decision will be communicated the next day.
Apart from lawyer petitioner Faisal Siddiqui, all other petitioners expressed confidence in the 6-member bench. However, petitioners’ counsel Salman Akram Raja, Supreme Court bar counsel Abid Zuberi, and chairman PTI’s counsel Shoaib Shaheen opposed the idea of a full court.
During the hearing, Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan presented arguments related to the accused involved in various attacks. The issue of arresting individuals and sending them to military courts was also discussed, raising concerns about the evidence used in the process.
Lawyer Faisal Siddiqui requested a full court, citing the importance of the case and its implications on fundamental rights. He clarified that their petition is separate from the government’s objections raised against the bench.
Petitioner Aitzaz Ahsan also spoke in favor of a full court, pointing out that it was surprising to challenge the formation of the bench at this stage. He advocated for keeping the accused in judicial custody instead of military custody.
In the end, the Supreme Court decided to hear the petitions regarding the constitution of a full court before making any further decisions. Other petitioners’ stands on the matter were also taken into account.
Overall, the case revolves around the trial of civilians in military courts, and the court will decide whether a full court bench should be constituted to hear the case.
