SC seeks clarity on right of appeal during military trial

Islamabad: Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Umar Ata Bandial ordered Attorney General of Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Usman to obtain directions from federal government regarding right of appeal under military courts.

A six-member bench, headed by CJP Bandial and comprising Justice Ijazul Ahsan, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Munib Akhtar, Justice Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi, and Justice Ayesha Malik was hearing pleas challenging the trials of May 9 riots accused before military courts.

Highlighting need for fair trial, CJ cited Kulbhushan Yadav case where right to review was provided against the verdict of military court.

At this, AGP Awan said the court could provide the requisite safeguard in this regard.

Meanwhile Justice Yahya Afridi suggested any legislation in this regard can only be done by parliament and apex court is not the appropriate forum for such exercise.

Expressing concern over process of military trials, Justice Ayesha said this is a mattter of protecting fundamental rights of citizens.

The AGP  informed the court armed forces, unlike police are not trained to deal with protestors.

Presenting details of attack following arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman on May 9, AGP said military isnstallations across the country including Lahore Corps Commander House, army installations in Rawalpindi, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Mianwali and other cities  were attacked

The apex court then adjourned the hearing till Friday.