IHC seeks clarity from govt about possibility of Khan’s military trial
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday pursued clarification from the federal government over the potential military trial of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan. This inquiry is related to Khan alleged involvement in the May 9 riots which occurred following his arrest in a corruption case last year.
Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb, who is dealing Khan petition filed under Article 199 of the Constitution on September 3, expressed concerns about the possibility of a civilian being tried by the military. “The PTI founder is a civilian and the military trial of a civilian is a matter of concern,” Justice Aurangzed said amid speculations about such trial for Khan.
Rumors about a military trial of the former prime minister have been stirred by statements from government officials, including Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar. Khawaja Asif had earlier suggested that evidence could lead to a military trial for Khan.
In July, an anti-terrorism court in Lahore said in a four-page written verdict that it found reasonable grounds to link Khan to the events of May 9. The government, led by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), had initiated military trials for those involved in attacks on state and military facilities.
However, the Supreme Court had ruled in October that civilians should not be tried in military courts, though this decision was later stayed by the court in December pending a final ruling on appeals.
During today’s proceedings, Justice Aurangzeb referring to a statement issued by the director general Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) expressed his views that if the government is contemplating a military trial, it should clarify its stance.
Aurangzeb raised concerns about the implications if the court declared no such trial was planned, only for a military trial to be ordered later. He instructed the additional attorney general to consult with the federal government and provide an update to the court by Monday.
Justice Aurangzeb indicated that if the government confirms that there are no plans for a military trial, Khan’s petition would become irrelevant. If a trial is indeed being considered, the court would proceed to review the case. He also addressed issues regarding the petition’s documentation and its relevance in light of the Supreme Court’s existing rulings on civilian military trials.
The case has been adjourned until September 16.
