Amid escalating concerns, various sectors are pressing for a thorough investigation into serious allegations leveled by six justices of the Islamabad High Court (IHC). This majority of the IHC bench, in a letter to the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC), has disclosed disturbing details of undue influence and coercion exerted by intelligence agencies on the judiciary.
The letter, directed to esteemed members of the SJC and Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa among others, unveils egregious offenses such as the abduction and torture of judges’ relatives, clandestine surveillance within their residences, and efforts to manipulate court verdicts. Furthermore, it casts doubt on the legitimacy of a state-sponsored initiative aimed at intimidating and pressuring judges.
Legal bodies including the Sindh High Court Bar Association (SHCBA), Lahore High Court Bar Association (LHCBA), and IHC Bar Association (IHCBA) have expressed deep concern over the matter and have called for transparent investigations. They emphasize the paramount importance of safeguarding judicial independence and ensuring impartial adjudication free from external influences.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has urged CJP Isa to initiate suo motu proceedings pursuant to Article 184(3) of the Constitution to facilitate a comprehensive and transparent inquiry. They underscore the imperative of shielding the judiciary from external pressures and undue influence.
Political entities such as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have also joined the chorus demanding an impartial probe into these grave allegations. Despite being incarcerated, former Prime Minister Imran Khan has emphasized the necessity of a fair investigation and characterized the interference by intelligence agencies as a severe threat to the autonomy of the courts.
Moreover, the Balochistan Bar Council and former Attorney General Ashtar Ausaf have underscored the gravity of the situation and have called for prompt action to address these issues and restore public trust in the legal system.
The mounting clamor for a transparent inquiry, amidst the nation’s anticipation for further disclosures, underscores the critical need to uphold the rule of law and preserve the integrity of the judicial system.