ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court (SC) on Tuesday expressed concerns over the ‘security lapse’ during the May 9 incidents while hearing intra-court appeals challenging the trial of civilians in military courts.
A bench led by Justice Aminuddin Khan and comprising Justices Jamal Khan Mandokhail, Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi, Naeem Akhtar Afghan, Musarrat Hilali, and Shahid Bilal Hassan, reviewed the appeals.
Justice Aminuddin’s constitutional bench inquired whether any resistance was offered when protesters entered the Lahore Corps Commander House on May 9.
Advocate Khawaja Haris, representing the Ministry of Defence, argued that trying civilians under military law is not unprecedented, referencing legal provisions from 1967. He explained that even during peacetime, civilians interfering with military operations could face trial in military courts.
Justice Hassan Azhar noted that cases like F.B. Ali took place during martial law, highlighting the difference from the current context.
The court questioned whether the mastermind behind the May 9 incidents had been identified and if any trials were underway. In response, Khawaja Haris confirmed such cases would also fall under military jurisdiction.
The bench further raised concerns over the absence of resistance during the events at military installations.
Khawaja Haris clarified that while protesters were accused of damaging property, no military officers had been charged, as the aim was to exercise restraint and avoid loss of life.
The hearing was adjourned until tomorrow.
