Supreme Court Requests Summary of Pending Civilian Trial Decisions by Military Courts

By Asif Ali Awan

| Published Mar 25, 2024 | 10:58 a.m.

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court has requested the Attorney General of Pakistan to compile a summary of pending decisions regarding civilian trials by military courts, to be presented at the next hearing on March 28.

This directive came as the court resumed consideration of intra-court appeals challenging its previous decision, which ruled that civilian trials in military courts were unconstitutional. The court had determined that civilians should be tried in regular criminal courts wit

h proper jurisdiction.

A six-member bench, led by Justice Aminuddin Khan, is currently reviewing the appeals. The bench's composition was a point of contention during the hearing, with some arguing for a larger nine-member bench to avoid potential controversy in the final judgment.

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government expressed its desire to withdraw its appeal, pending formal application. Meanwhile, questions were raised about the employment of private lawyers for cases already represented by the attorney general, citing concerns over public expenditure.

The court inquired about the status of the 103 detainees involved, specifically regarding acquittals and convictions. The attorney general clarified that while trials have concluded, the final verdicts are on hold due to the court's orders.

Notices have been issued to involved parties, and the hearing has been adjourned until March 28.