Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s hospital visit has triggered a fresh political confrontation after he was taken from Adiala Jail to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad for a medical checkup before being returned to prison.

Khan’s party, PTI, has filed a contempt petition in the Supreme Court, accusing authorities of violating an order that reportedly directed his medical examination at Shifa International Hospital.

The Pakistan government has rejected the allegations, saying security concerns linked to PTI supporters prompted the change in hospital. Officials said a team of doctors examined Khan and declared him medically fit.

PTI has rejected the government’s explanation and maintained that no party workers were present around the hospital.

Imran Khan Hospital Row Escalates | PTI Files Contempt Petition Over Supreme Court Order

As the Asim Munir-led hybrid regime faces a growing legitimacy crisis, is the political scenario in Pakistan set to change yet again? In a big boost for the opposition, ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan secured a major relief From the country's supreme court after being in Lahore's Adiala jail for over three years. A three-member supreme court bench ordered the cricketer-turned-politician to be moved to Islamabad's Shifa International hospital for treatment until at least September 16. This came in wake of growing concerns over the health of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf founder.&nbsp;Khan will have to be transferred to the private hospital within 48 hours. The Pak SC also ordered the creation of a medical board for him comprising an eye specialist, a general physician, a cardiologist and Khan's personal physician Dr. Faisal Sultan. The court also made it clear that Sultan as well as the PTI founder's sister Dr. Uzma Khan will be associated with his treatment. This is not all. According to the court's order, the jail authorities have to facilitate weekly meetings with his family and regular calls with his UK-based sons.&nbsp;The cost of the treatment shall be borne by the ex-PM's family. However, is there a cover-up being attempted? Even as rumours about Khan's death have been doing the rounds, Pakistan's top court has chosen to gag the media. The Pakistan SC directed Khan's family and lawyers not to share his medical reports with the media. It further directed that no media talk, political activity or press conference will be held outside the hospital by anyone meeting Khan. According to the court, this order cannot be recalled if these directives are violated.&nbsp;This raises a key question. Is the Pakistani establishment trying to hide the reality of Khan's medical condition? Let's jog your memory back a little. In February this year, Imran Khan's lawyer informed the SC that he lost 85% of vision in his right eye. The PTI founder has been diagnosed with right central retinal vein occlusion, a medical condition which can cause permanent damage to eyesight if left untreated. His condition aggravated as he was merely given eye drops for three months, which resulted in no improvement. In August, Khan complained of fluctuating blood pressure, mental stress and headache, after which doctors recommended an angiography. Now, this comes in the backdrop of the party announcing a long march to Islamabad on September 27 which was supposed to be joined by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM Sohail Afridi and nearly two million people.&nbsp;Last week, PTI workers hit the streets to demand the ex-PM's release as well as in protest against the rising corruption. Earlier on August 5, hundreds of PTI supporters gathered in Karachi to mark the third anniversary of his detention. A heavy contingent of riot police charged towards the demonstrators, fired tear gas, beat them and dragged them towards police vehicles. Now, the jail authorities presented a rather rosy picture Of the PTI founder's health in Pakistan's apex court. For instance, they claimed that his vision has returned to normal after treatment. They also added that medical officers visit him thrice in jail and check his vitals including blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen saturation.&nbsp;According to the authorities, Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have met in jail 84 times so far. It is worth noting that the Asim Munir-led military establishment started a brutal crackdown on PTI after its party workers allegedly attacked military installations in May 2023. At present, Khan and Bushra Bibi are serving a 17-year jail term in the Toshakhana-II case. Besides this, the couple has also been convicted in the Toshakhana-I, Al-qadir trust and the unlawful marriage cases. After Khan was arrested, PTI accused Munir of rigging the 2024 general election. To begin with, PTI's candidates were barred From contesting on the party's name and 'bat' symbol. Despite this, PTI-linked independents emerged as the single-largest group with 93 seats.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-sc-orders-imran-khan-s-transfer-from-jail-to-hospital-curbs-media-amid-death-rumours-1787073359661/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-sc-orders-imran-khan-s-transfer-from-jail-to-hospital-curbs-media-amid-death-rumours-1787073359661/embed</a>&nbsp;If not for blatant rigging, PTI believes that the real seat tally was 180, whereas the ruling PMLN won only 17 seats in reality. At a time when Pak Army is batting for creation of more provinces, Is today's development a fresh bid by the Pak establishment to reach out to PTI? Does this also spell trouble for PMLN and PPP? One thing is clear though. Khan's resilience has put the Munir-led hybrid regime in a serious spot of bother.

 A three-member supreme court bench ordered the cricketer-turned-politician to be moved to Islamabad's Shifa International hospital for treatment until at least September 16

As the Asim Munir-led hybrid regime faces a growing legitimacy crisis, is the political scenario in Pakistan set to change yet again? In a big boost for the opposition, ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan secured a major relief From the country's supreme court after being in Lahore's Adiala jail for over three years. A three-member supreme court bench ordered the cricketer-turned-politician to be moved to Islamabad's Shifa International hospital for treatment until at least September 16. This came in wake of growing concerns over the health of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf founder. Khan will have to be transferred to the private hospital within 48 hours. The Pak SC also ordered the creation of a medical board for him comprising an eye specialist, a general physician, a cardiologist and Khan's personal physician Dr. Faisal Sultan. The court also made it clear that Sultan as well as the PTI founder's sister Dr. Uzma Khan will be associated with his treatment. This is not all. According to the court's order, the jail authorities have to facilitate weekly meetings with his family and regular calls with his UK-based sons. The cost of the treatment shall be borne by the ex-PM's family. However, is there a cover-up being attempted? Even as rumours about Khan's death have been doing the rounds, Pakistan's top court has chosen to gag the media. The Pakistan SC directed Khan's family and lawyers not to share his medical reports with the media. It further directed that no media talk, political activity or press conference will be held outside the hospital by anyone meeting Khan. According to the court, this order cannot be recalled if these directives are violated. This raises a key question. Is the Pakistani establishment trying to hide the reality of Khan's medical condition? Let's jog your memory back a little. In February this year, Imran Khan's lawyer informed the SC that he lost 85% of vision in his right eye. The PTI founder has been diagnosed with right central retinal vein occlusion, a medical condition which can cause permanent damage to eyesight if left untreated. His condition aggravated as he was merely given eye drops for three months, which resulted in no improvement. In August, Khan complained of fluctuating blood pressure, mental stress and headache, after which doctors recommended an angiography. Now, this comes in the backdrop of the party announcing a long march to Islamabad on September 27 which was supposed to be joined by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM Sohail Afridi and nearly two million people. Last week, PTI workers hit the streets to demand the ex-PM's release as well as in protest against the rising corruption. Earlier on August 5, hundreds of PTI supporters gathered in Karachi to mark the third anniversary of his detention. A heavy contingent of riot police charged towards the demonstrators, fired tear gas, beat them and dragged them towards police vehicles. Now, the jail authorities presented a rather rosy picture Of the PTI founder's health in Pakistan's apex court. For instance, they claimed that his vision has returned to normal after treatment. They also added that medical officers visit him thrice in jail and check his vitals including blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen saturation. According to the authorities, Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have met in jail 84 times so far. It is worth noting that the Asim Munir-led military establishment started a brutal crackdown on PTI after its party workers allegedly attacked military installations in May 2023. At present, Khan and Bushra Bibi are serving a 17-year jail term in the Toshakhana-II case. Besides this, the couple has also been convicted in the Toshakhana-I, Al-qadir trust and the unlawful marriage cases. After Khan was arrested, PTI accused Munir of rigging the 2024 general election. To begin with, PTI's candidates were barred From contesting on the party's name and 'bat' symbol. Despite this, PTI-linked independents emerged as the single-largest group with 93 seats. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-sc-orders-imran-khan-s-transfer-from-jail-to-hospital-curbs-media-amid-death-rumours-1787073359661/embed If not for blatant rigging, PTI believes that the real seat tally was 180, whereas the ruling PMLN won only 17 seats in reality. At a time when Pak Army is batting for creation of more provinces, Is today's development a fresh bid by the Pak establishment to reach out to PTI? Does this also spell trouble for PMLN and PPP? One thing is clear though. Khan's resilience has put the Munir-led hybrid regime in a serious spot of bother.

&nbsp;A three-member supreme court bench ordered the cricketer-turned-politician to be moved to Islamabad's Shifa International hospital for treatment until at least September 16

Pakistan SC orders Imran Khan's transfer from jail to hospital, curbs media amid 'death' rumours | Gravitas

Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, former prime minister of Pakistan, was hanged in 1979 after being convicted of murder, but he didn't get a fair trial, the Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday (Mar 6).&nbsp;

Bhutto served as the fourth president of Pakistan from 1971 to 1973 and also as the ninth prime minister of the South Asian nation from 1973 to 1977.&nbsp;

Fourty-four years ago, Bhutto was hanged after a trial under the military regime of late General Zia-ul-Haq.&nbsp;

The ex-prime minister founded the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), which is now run by his grandson and former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.&nbsp;

In remarks telecast live of the ruling, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa said, "We didn't find that the fair trial and due process requirements were met."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/unexpected-snowfall-takes-several-lives-in-pakistan-afghanistan-northwest-indian-shivers-in-march-697135">Unexpected snowfall takes several lives in Pakistan, Afghanistan; Northwest India shivers in March</a>&nbsp;

Bilawal's father, Asif Ali Zardari, had filed a judicial reference during his tenure as president in 2011, and the ruling was in response to that.&nbsp;

The reference sought an opinion by the top court on revisiting the death sentence awarded to Bhutto.&nbsp;

The chief justice said that it was a unanimous decision taken by a nine-member bench headed by him.&nbsp;

The larger bench consisted of Justice Sardar Tariq Masood, Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Amin-ud-Din Khan, Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhel, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi and Justice Musarrat Hilali.&nbsp;

The CJP Isa announced the unanimous opinion, stating, "The proceedings of the trial by the Lahore High Court and of the appeal by the Supreme Court of Pakistan do not meet the requirements of the fundamental right to a fair trial and due process enshrined in Articles 4 and 9 of the Constitution, and later guaranteed as a separate and fundamental right under Article 10A of the Constitution."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bolstered-by-maldives-china-pact-president-muizzu-asks-indian-officials-to-leave-by-may-10-696762">Emboldened after pact with China, President Muizzu says all Indian officials will leave by May 10</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Why timing of the Achakzai's raid is notable

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Pakistan's top court also acknowledged that there had been "some cases in our judicial history that created a public perception that either fear or favour deterred the performance of a duty to administer justice in accordance with the law".&nbsp;

"We must therefore be willing to confront our past missteps and fallibilities with humility, in the spirit of self-accountability, and as a testament to our commitment to ensure that justice must be served with unwavering integrity and fidelity to the law," Justice Isa said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, he also admitted that "we cannot correct ourselves and progress in the right direction until we acknowledge our past mistakes".&nbsp;

Shehbaz Sharif, who recently took oath as the prime minister after a disputed election in February, hailed the ruling.&nbsp;

"It is a positive development that a wrong done by a court has been corrected by a court," Sharif said in a statement from his office.&nbsp;

Bilawal also reacted to the judgement. Taking to his official X social media account, he said that the SC's opinion came "44 years after judicial murder and more than 12 years after [the] presidential reference was filed".&nbsp;

"The pursuit of justice was a labour of love by President Asif Ali Zardari in the name of his wife Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. Our family waited 3 generations to hear these words," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, former prime minister of Pakistan, was hanged in 1979 after being convicted of murder, but he didn't get a fair trial, the Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday (Mar 6).

Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, former prime minister of Pakistan, was hanged in 1979 after being convicted of murder, but he didn't get a fair trial, the Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday (Mar 6). Bhutto served as the fourth president of Pakistan from 1971 to 1973 and also as the ninth prime minister of the South Asian nation from 1973 to 1977. Fourty-four years ago, Bhutto was hanged after a trial under the military regime of late General Zia-ul-Haq. The ex-prime minister founded the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), which is now run by his grandson and former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. In remarks telecast live of the ruling, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa said, "We didn't find that the fair trial and due process requirements were met." Also read: Unexpected snowfall takes several lives in Pakistan, Afghanistan; Northwest India shivers in March Bilawal's father, Asif Ali Zardari, had filed a judicial reference during his tenure as president in 2011, and the ruling was in response to that. The reference sought an opinion by the top court on revisiting the death sentence awarded to Bhutto. The chief justice said that it was a unanimous decision taken by a nine-member bench headed by him. The larger bench consisted of Justice Sardar Tariq Masood, Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Amin-ud-Din Khan, Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhel, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi and Justice Musarrat Hilali. The CJP Isa announced the unanimous opinion, stating, "The proceedings of the trial by the Lahore High Court and of the appeal by the Supreme Court of Pakistan do not meet the requirements of the fundamental right to a fair trial and due process enshrined in Articles 4 and 9 of the Constitution, and later guaranteed as a separate and fundamental right under Article 10A of the Constitution." Also read: Emboldened after pact with China, President Muizzu says all Indian officials will leave by May 10 Watch: Why timing of the Achakzai's raid is notable × Pakistan's top court also acknowledged that there had been "some cases in our judicial history that created a public perception that either fear or favour deterred the performance of a duty to administer justice in accordance with the law". "We must therefore be willing to confront our past missteps and fallibilities with humility, in the spirit of self-accountability, and as a testament to our commitment to ensure that justice must be served with unwavering integrity and fidelity to the law," Justice Isa said. Meanwhile, he also admitted that "we cannot correct ourselves and progress in the right direction until we acknowledge our past mistakes". Shehbaz Sharif, who recently took oath as the prime minister after a disputed election in February, hailed the ruling. "It is a positive development that a wrong done by a court has been corrected by a court," Sharif said in a statement from his office. Bilawal also reacted to the judgement. Taking to his official X social media account, he said that the SC's opinion came "44 years after judicial murder and more than 12 years after [the] presidential reference was filed". "The pursuit of justice was a labour of love by President Asif Ali Zardari in the name of his wife Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. Our family waited 3 generations to hear these words," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-Pakistan PM Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, hanged in 1979, didn’t get a fair trial, rules Supreme Court

Pakistan Election Results 2024: The Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19) postponed the hearing of the petition that sought to declare the Feb 8 national elections as 'null and void' due to the petitioner's non-appearance. Widespread rigging claims as well as delayed election results have tainted the purported integrity of Pakistan's elections.&nbsp;

As the&nbsp;three-member bench — led by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Musarrat Hilali — took up the plea, the petitioner did not appear before the court, Pakistan's Dawn publication reported.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-2024-to-be-declared-null-and-void-all-eyes-on-supreme-court-for-key-verdict-691082">Pakistan Elections 2024 to be declared null and void? All eyes on Supreme Court for key verdict</a>

The top court then&nbsp;issued a notice to the petitioner, Brigadier (retd) Ali Khan through the defence ministry and adjourned the hearing until Feb 21.

Pakistan's Supreme Court noted that the&nbsp;phone number of the petitioner, who had identified himself as a former brigadier, was turned off when contacted.

"Was the application filed only for publicity? This cannot be allowed. We will not allow the Supreme Court to be used in a wrong manner," the court reportedly observed.

<h2>IHC suspends results&nbsp;</h2>

Notably, on the same day, the Islamabad High Court (IHC)&nbsp;suspended the results of three constituencies in the federal capital after the success of the candidates was challenged.&nbsp;

After hearing the case, IHC suspended poll result notifications issued by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for&nbsp;NA-46, NA-47 and NA-48 seats.

<h2>Call to annul Pakistan election results: What is the context?</h2>

The February 8 general elections in Pakistan gave the majority to&nbsp;none of the parties and were conducted when mobile phone connectivity was cut off in the entire country. Furthermore, the accusations of rigging followed, and the delayed election results added to the overall taint.

In the results that were announced, jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf-backed independent candidates secured 92 seats, while Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) secured 75 and 54 seats, respectively.

The PML-N and the PPP are trying to form a government with former prime minister Shehbaz Sharif emerging as the next prime minister.

Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan Elections 2024: Bilawal claims PML-N candidates wrongfully declared winners

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The petitioner in the case sought the apex court to order fresh elections within 30 days. The plea sought general elections under the supervision and oversight of the judiciary to ensure fairness, transparency and accountability.

Additionally, the petition also sought a stay order on the formation of the new government till the case is resolved.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Election Results 2024: The Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19) postponed the hearing of the petition that sought to declare the Feb 8 national elections as 'null and void' due to the petitioner's non-appearance.

Pakistan Election Results 2024: The Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19) postponed the hearing of the petition that sought to declare the Feb 8 national elections as 'null and void' due to the petitioner's non-appearance. Widespread rigging claims as well as delayed election results have tainted the purported integrity of Pakistan's elections. As the three-member bench — led by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Musarrat Hilali — took up the plea, the petitioner did not appear before the court, Pakistan's Dawn publication reported. Also read | Pakistan Elections 2024 to be declared null and void? All eyes on Supreme Court for key verdict The top court then issued a notice to the petitioner, Brigadier (retd) Ali Khan through the defence ministry and adjourned the hearing until Feb 21. Pakistan's Supreme Court noted that the phone number of the petitioner, who had identified himself as a former brigadier, was turned off when contacted. "Was the application filed only for publicity? This cannot be allowed. We will not allow the Supreme Court to be used in a wrong manner," the court reportedly observed. IHC suspends results Notably, on the same day, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) suspended the results of three constituencies in the federal capital after the success of the candidates was challenged. After hearing the case, IHC suspended poll result notifications issued by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for NA-46, NA-47 and NA-48 seats. Call to annul Pakistan election results: What is the context? The February 8 general elections in Pakistan gave the majority to none of the parties and were conducted when mobile phone connectivity was cut off in the entire country. Furthermore, the accusations of rigging followed, and the delayed election results added to the overall taint. In the results that were announced, jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf-backed independent candidates secured 92 seats, while Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) secured 75 and 54 seats, respectively. The PML-N and the PPP are trying to form a government with former prime minister Shehbaz Sharif emerging as the next prime minister. Also watch | Pakistan Elections 2024: Bilawal claims PML-N candidates wrongfully declared winners × The petitioner in the case sought the apex court to order fresh elections within 30 days. The plea sought general elections under the supervision and oversight of the judiciary to ensure fairness, transparency and accountability. Additionally, the petition also sought a stay order on the formation of the new government till the case is resolved. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan top court postpones hearing on case seeking to annul Feb 8 election results

Pakistan Election Results 2024: Shehbaz Sharif's designation as future prime minister of Pakistan hangs in balance after an attempt to declare the results of the February 8 elections&nbsp;null and void.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19) is scheduled to hear a petition seeking to declare the recently held general elections as null and void due to reports of&nbsp;poll rigging and deliberate delay in announcing the results by Pakistan's election commission. The hearing becomes all the more important as even the Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) has alleged rigging in the polls. The PPP is an&nbsp;ally of Shehbaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) in the evolving scheme of things for an alliance that is purported to assume power in Islamabad.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-rawalpindi-commissioner-arrested-after-claiming-13-loser-candidates-given-victory-691189">Pakistan Elections: Rawalpindi Commissioner resigns after claiming 13 losing candidates ‘declared’ winners</a>

The petition would be heard by a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/pakistan-elections-2024-army-modifies-methodology-of-selecting-pm-689879">Pakistan elections 2024: Army modifies methodology of selecting PM</a>

The petition seeks to declare the results of the February 8 polls null and void and get elections re-conducted within 30 days under the supervision and oversight of the judiciary, The Express Tribune newspaper reported.

<h2>Who is the petitioner?</h2>

According to the report, the petitioner is a citizen named Ali Khan and he&nbsp;has also made the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and the federal government&nbsp;respondents in the case.

"The petitioner seeks the apex court to order fresh elections within 30 days. The plea seeks general elections under the supervision and oversight of the judiciary to ensure fairness, transparency and accountability," said the report.

Additionally, the petition also seeks a stay order on the formation of the new government till the case is resolved.

Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan Elections: PPP &amp; PML-N pick Shehbaz Sharif as PM nominee

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The Feb 8 general elections in Pakistan gave the majority to&nbsp;none of the parties.

Jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf-backed independent candidates secured 92 seats, while Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) secured 75 and 54 seats, respectively.

The PML-N and the PPP are trying to form a government with former prime minister Shehbaz Sharif emerging as the next prime minister.

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) has propped up Umar Ayub Khan, the party secretary general and the grandson of former military dictator Ayub Khan, as the prime ministerial candidate.

The petition seeking annulment of the polls came as several political parties, including the PTI, the PPP, the Jamaat-e-Islami, and the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F)&nbsp;levelled allegations of rigging in the general elections.

The final results of the polls were announced after an extraordinary delay, raising doubts over the elections' transparency.

Pakistan has also seen protests across the country by several parties who alleged poll rigging. Khan's PTI has called for nationwide peaceful protests over the weekend.&nbsp;

(With inputs from the agencies)

Pakistan Election Results 2024: Shehbaz Sharif's designation as future prime minister of Pakistan hangs in balance after an attempt to declare the results of the February 8 elections null and void.

Pakistan Election Results 2024: Shehbaz Sharif's designation as future prime minister of Pakistan hangs in balance after an attempt to declare the results of the February 8 elections null and void. Pakistan's Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19) is scheduled to hear a petition seeking to declare the recently held general elections as null and void due to reports of poll rigging and deliberate delay in announcing the results by Pakistan's election commission. The hearing becomes all the more important as even the Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) has alleged rigging in the polls. The PPP is an ally of Shehbaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) in the evolving scheme of things for an alliance that is purported to assume power in Islamabad. Also read | Pakistan Elections: Rawalpindi Commissioner resigns after claiming 13 losing candidates ‘declared’ winners The petition would be heard by a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa. Also read | Pakistan elections 2024: Army modifies methodology of selecting PM The petition seeks to declare the results of the February 8 polls null and void and get elections re-conducted within 30 days under the supervision and oversight of the judiciary, The Express Tribune newspaper reported. Who is the petitioner? According to the report, the petitioner is a citizen named Ali Khan and he has also made the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and the federal government respondents in the case. "The petitioner seeks the apex court to order fresh elections within 30 days. The plea seeks general elections under the supervision and oversight of the judiciary to ensure fairness, transparency and accountability," said the report. Additionally, the petition also seeks a stay order on the formation of the new government till the case is resolved. Also watch | Pakistan Elections: PPP & PML-N pick Shehbaz Sharif as PM nominee × The Feb 8 general elections in Pakistan gave the majority to none of the parties. Jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf-backed independent candidates secured 92 seats, while Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) secured 75 and 54 seats, respectively. The PML-N and the PPP are trying to form a government with former prime minister Shehbaz Sharif emerging as the next prime minister. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) has propped up Umar Ayub Khan, the party secretary general and the grandson of former military dictator Ayub Khan, as the prime ministerial candidate. The petition seeking annulment of the polls came as several political parties, including the PTI, the PPP, the Jamaat-e-Islami, and the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) levelled allegations of rigging in the general elections. The final results of the polls were announced after an extraordinary delay, raising doubts over the elections' transparency. Pakistan has also seen protests across the country by several parties who alleged poll rigging. Khan's PTI has called for nationwide peaceful protests over the weekend. (With inputs from the agencies)

Pakistan Elections 2024 to be declared null and void? All eyes on Supreme Court for key verdict

Justice Ijazul Ahsan of the Pakistan Supreme Court, who was slated to be the country's next chief justice, resigned on Thursday (Jan 11). According to a report by the Indian news agency PTI, Justice Ahsan wrote in his resignation letter to President Arif Alvi that he no longer wished to continue.

Justice Ijazul Ahsan of the Pakistan Supreme Court, who was slated to be the country's next chief justice, resigned on Thursday (Jan 11). According to a report by the Indian news agency PTI, Justice Ahsan wrote in his resignation letter to President Arif Alvi that he no longer wished to continue. He was the second senior-most judge of the apex court. His resignation came a day after another top court judge Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi stepped down, PTI reported. Ahsan had earlier served as a judge of the Lahore High Court, and later the Chief Justice of the high court. Ahsan part of bench that disqualified Nawaz Sharif Ahsan was a part of the five-member Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) but refused to join other members of the council on November 22 last year in the issuance of a fresh show-cause notice to judge Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi. Naqvi was facing allegations of misconduct and was being probed by the council. Also Watch | Justice Ahsan quits after Justice Mazahar Ali Naqvi's resignation × Ahsan was also part of the five-member bench that disqualified former prime minister Nawaz Sharif in the Panamagate case in 2017. He was appointed to monitor and supervise the implementation of the case verdict which resulted in the conviction of Sharif in two corruption cases, and his eventual exile. 'A sad day for Supreme Court' Legal experts in Pakistan reacted to Ahsan's resignation from the Supreme Court. Speaking to Dawn, lawyer Rida Hosain said that Ahsan's decision to step down was a sad day for the apex court. “The decision was historic, brave, and a victory for fundamental rights,” Hosain said adding Ahsan was part of the bench that ordered provincial polls to be held on time. He was also part of the bench that declared military trials of civilians as “unconstitutional.” Also read: Pakistan elections: Want to be voice of minorities, says Dr Saveera Parkash Lawyer Abdul Moiz Jaferii told the publication that Naqvi's resignation was expected but Ahsan's was not. “The simplest explanation is that Justice Ahsan couldn’t handle the heat. There was something he was afraid would come up, which he had until now been able to manage because he had someone more senior than himself to hide behind,” Jaferii said, adding it was sad that the outgoing judge was hounded by the same set of forces he helped to hunt all these years. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan SC judge, tipped to be next chief justice, resigns. Was part of bench that disqualified Nawaz Sharif

The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Wednesday (January 10) upheld the death sentence for Pakistan's former military ruler General Pervez Musharraf. The verdict has come a year after his death. The supreme court maintained the death sentence handed to Musharraf by a special court in the country in a high treason case in 2019. Musharraf died on February 5, 2023 in Dubai after long illness. The 79-year-old was receiving treatment for amyloidosis in Dubai. He was living in Dubai in self-imposed exile since 2016 in order to avoid criminal charges in Pakistan.

The hearing in the Supreme Court of Pakistan was held by four-member bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa and comprising Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Aminuddin Khan and Justice Athar Minallah.

Watch | Pakistan Supreme Court reverses its earlier order, says 'no lawmaker can be disqualified for life'

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The high treason case against Musharraf was filed during the tenure of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) against his decision to impose an emergency in November 2007. A special court handed Musharraf a death sentence on December 17, 2019. Musharraf had filed an appeal against this decision. The Lahore High Court had deemed the decision by the special court 'unconstitutional' in 2020. But Pakistan Bar Council and some senior lawyers in the country challenged the decision of the Lahore High Court.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ex-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-arrested-in-case-linked-to-2023-army-headquarters-attack-678297">Ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan arrested in case linked to 2023 Army headquarters attack</a>

The Supreme Court of Pakistan, while rejecting Musharraf's appeal, said, "Pervez Musharraf's heirs did not follow the case even on multiple notices," as per Geo TV.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/terrorist-hafiz-saeed-is-serving-78-year-prison-sentence-in-pakistan-un-678406">Terrorist Hafiz Saeed is serving 78-year prison sentence in Pakistan: UN</a>

Musharraf toppled civilian government headed by then-PM Nawaz Sharif in 1999. After ruling the country as a military leader in the initial years, Musharraf appointed himself President of Pakistan in 2001. He remained a major player in Pakistani politics for years and during his dictatorship, he had a fairly effective grip on political developments and manoeuvres in Pakistan. Musharraf agreed to hold elections in 2002.

Musharraf was considered the architect of Kargil war against India months before the military coup.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Wednesday (January 10) upheld the death sentence for Pakistan's former military ruler General Pervez Musharraf. The verdict has come a year after his death.

The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Wednesday (January 10) upheld the death sentence for Pakistan's former military ruler General Pervez Musharraf. The verdict has come a year after his death. The supreme court maintained the death sentence handed to Musharraf by a special court in the country in a high treason case in 2019. Musharraf died on February 5, 2023 in Dubai after long illness. The 79-year-old was receiving treatment for amyloidosis in Dubai. He was living in Dubai in self-imposed exile since 2016 in order to avoid criminal charges in Pakistan. The hearing in the Supreme Court of Pakistan was held by four-member bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa and comprising Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Aminuddin Khan and Justice Athar Minallah. Watch | Pakistan Supreme Court reverses its earlier order, says 'no lawmaker can be disqualified for life' × The high treason case against Musharraf was filed during the tenure of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) against his decision to impose an emergency in November 2007. A special court handed Musharraf a death sentence on December 17, 2019. Musharraf had filed an appeal against this decision. The Lahore High Court had deemed the decision by the special court 'unconstitutional' in 2020. But Pakistan Bar Council and some senior lawyers in the country challenged the decision of the Lahore High Court. Also Read | Ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan arrested in case linked to 2023 Army headquarters attack The Supreme Court of Pakistan, while rejecting Musharraf's appeal, said, "Pervez Musharraf's heirs did not follow the case even on multiple notices," as per Geo TV. Also Read | Terrorist Hafiz Saeed is serving 78-year prison sentence in Pakistan: UN Musharraf toppled civilian government headed by then-PM Nawaz Sharif in 1999. After ruling the country as a military leader in the initial years, Musharraf appointed himself President of Pakistan in 2001. He remained a major player in Pakistani politics for years and during his dictatorship, he had a fairly effective grip on political developments and manoeuvres in Pakistan. Musharraf agreed to hold elections in 2002. Musharraf was considered the architect of Kargil war against India months before the military coup. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan supreme court upholds General Musharraf’s death sentence, a year after his death

In a crucial case that would determine the permanent disqualification of a number of prominent politicians, including former prime ministers Nawaz Sharif and Imran Khan, the Supreme Court of Pakistan on Friday postponed making a decision. The decision is anticipated to settle the dispute about the duration of disqualification under Article 62(1)(f) of the Constitution and the Elections Act of 2017 once and for all.

Pakistan Supreme Court reserves verdict in lifetime disqualification case

Earlier this year, Islamabad passed a bill that effectively curtailed discretionary powers of the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) which Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his cabinet members claimed was creating political instability. The contentious bill reportedly became a law amid criticism from former PM Imran Khan and his party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).&nbsp;

However, the Pakistan Supreme Court, on Friday (August 11) moved to strike down the Supreme Court (Review of Judgments and Orders) Act, 2023 which expanded the scope of a review petition and termed it “unconstitutional”.&nbsp;

The verdict could throw a wrench into the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-new-law-paves-way-for-former-pm-nawaz-sharifs-return-report-609308">former PM Nawaz Sharif’s plan to return</a> to Islamabad.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the law about?</h2>

The Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Bill, 2023 became a law back in April. According to a report by the Dawn, initially, the bill was approved by the federal cabinet on March 28 and then passed by both houses of parliament – the National Assembly and Senate.&nbsp;

However, despite a Supreme Court order halting the law’s implementation and Pakistan President Arif Alvi refusing to sign it for the second time, the controversial bill took legal effect on April 21 after it technically became an act of the parliament.&nbsp;

The law has effectively brought about three significant changes, one of which is what suo motu cases can be taken up is now decided by a committee consisting of the CJP and two other senior most judges as opposed to only the top justice.&nbsp;

Secondly, benches to hear these cases will also be decided by the committee instead of just the CJP, where any case that involves interpreting the Constitution will not have a bench with fewer than five judges. Lastly, the decisions made in such cases will be open to appeals.

Previously, the suo motu cases were taken up under Article 184(3), where the Supreme Court could take up a case “if it considers that a question of public importance with reference to the enforcement of any of the Fundamental Rights” is involved, and this was directly at the discretion of the CJP.

<h2>How is this related to Nawaz Sharif’s comeback?</h2>

Speaking in the National Assembly, Pakistan Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, as quoted by the Dawn said, “In the past it has been observed that suo motu notice had been taken on petty matters like lack of parking space outside a hospital, submerging of a street in rainwater, or recovery of a bottle from an accused. Therefore, it is the need of the hour to form a mechanism to ensure transparency.”

He added, “Presently, there is no right of appeal in suo motu cases but in the proposed Bill we have given the right to the accused to file intra-court appeal within 30 days.”&nbsp;

Additionally, another provision says that any application that has pleaded “urgency or seeking interim relief, filed in a cause, appeal or matter,” should be heard within 14 days from the date of its filing.&nbsp; 
 
Therefore, the recently passed bill would have allowed Nawaz Sharif and other parliamentarians disqualified by the Supreme Court under suo motu powers to appeal their disqualification within 30 days of the law’s enactment.

<h2>Why were the CJP’s powers curtailed?</h2>

One of the immediate triggers that led to the push of passing the bill was said to be the two supreme court judges’ dissenting verdict in a case related to the holding of elections in the Pakistani provinces of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which slammed the concentrated powers with the CJP.&nbsp;

It also came amid tension between the government and Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, who is seen as supportive of PTI chief Imran Khan. The ousted PM has been demanding national elections and earlier this year forced the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) hand by&nbsp;dissolving&nbsp;the provincial assemblies in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.&nbsp;

However, since the commission did not announce an election schedule, President Alvi, a PTI member, unilaterally decided that elections in the two provinces would be held in April, which prompted Bandial to take suo motu notice of the matter and initiate a hearing.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court in a 3-2 verdict directed the ECP to go ahead with elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which led the two dissenting justices to raise opposition to the unlimited authority of the CJP.

<h2>Pakistan SC strikes down the legislation</h2>

On Friday,&nbsp;a three-member SC bench which included the CJP, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-supreme-court-trashes-sc-act-2023-dashing-fmr-pm-sharifs-dreams-of-staging-a-comeback-624581">struck down</a>&nbsp;the bill that allowed the right of appeal under Article 184 of the constitution.&nbsp;

The law which was passed on May 5 according to the incumbent government was aimed at “facilitating and strengthening the Supreme Court in exercising its powers to review its judgements and orders,” as quoted by the Dawn.&nbsp;

However, the opposition viewed this move as an attempt to reverse the disqualification of PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif.&nbsp;

The bill essentially expanded the jurisdiction of the court by giving a right to appeal under&nbsp;Article 184(3) and granted individuals the right to appeal within 30 days of a judgement in suo motu cases.

However, a detailed verdict, a copy of which is available with Dawn, said that the law was “repugnant to and ultra vires the Constitution” while being beyond the legislative competence of Parliament.&nbsp; 
 
“In addition, the 2023 Act does not ‘enlarge’ review jurisdiction, it ‘creates’ a new appellate jurisdiction which has no constitutional basis, sanction or authorisation,” it added.&nbsp;

“It is accordingly struck down as null and void and of no legal effect,” the order said, as quoted by media reports.&nbsp;

<h2>Will it affect Nawaz’s return?</h2>

The top court’s decision comes a day after outgoing PM Shehbaz Sharif <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharif-to-return-to-pakistan-next-month-pm-shehbaz-sharif-624381">said</a> his elder brother Nawaz would return next month to Pakistan and would lead the PML-N campaign in the upcoming polls.

After the verdict, former law minister Azam Nazeer Tarar told Geo News that the apex court’s verdict would have “no impact” on the cases related to the disqualification of the former PM Nawaz Sharif.&nbsp;

He called the verdict “unfortunate” and said it is not a positive precedent for the courts to repeatedly intervene in parliamentary affairs and issue rulings that compromise its autonomy. When asked if the verdict could cause a delay in Nawaz’s expected return, Tarar said, “Not at all.”

He also went on to refer to an amendment which he described as nearly unanimous legislation that limited the disqualification of lawmakers to a maximum of five years with retrospective effect.

Nawaz and “dozens of others disqualified only in the cases of 184(3) are now, after five years, eligible to take part in elections under Article 232 (disqualification on account of offences) of the Elections Act,” reported&nbsp;Dawn.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
&nbsp;

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Earlier this year, Islamabad passed a bill that effectively curtailed discretionary powers of the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) which Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his cabinet members claimed was creating political instability.

Earlier this year, Islamabad passed a bill that effectively curtailed discretionary powers of the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) which Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his cabinet members claimed was creating political instability. The contentious bill reportedly became a law amid criticism from former PM Imran Khan and his party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). However, the Pakistan Supreme Court, on Friday (August 11) moved to strike down the Supreme Court (Review of Judgments and Orders) Act, 2023 which expanded the scope of a review petition and termed it “unconstitutional”. The verdict could throw a wrench into the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and former PM Nawaz Sharif’s plan to return to Islamabad. What is the law about? The Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Bill, 2023 became a law back in April. According to a report by the Dawn, initially, the bill was approved by the federal cabinet on March 28 and then passed by both houses of parliament – the National Assembly and Senate. However, despite a Supreme Court order halting the law’s implementation and Pakistan President Arif Alvi refusing to sign it for the second time, the controversial bill took legal effect on April 21 after it technically became an act of the parliament. The law has effectively brought about three significant changes, one of which is what suo motu cases can be taken up is now decided by a committee consisting of the CJP and two other senior most judges as opposed to only the top justice. Secondly, benches to hear these cases will also be decided by the committee instead of just the CJP, where any case that involves interpreting the Constitution will not have a bench with fewer than five judges. Lastly, the decisions made in such cases will be open to appeals. Previously, the suo motu cases were taken up under Article 184(3), where the Supreme Court could take up a case “if it considers that a question of public importance with reference to the enforcement of any of the Fundamental Rights” is involved, and this was directly at the discretion of the CJP. How is this related to Nawaz Sharif’s comeback? Speaking in the National Assembly, Pakistan Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, as quoted by the Dawn said, “In the past it has been observed that suo motu notice had been taken on petty matters like lack of parking space outside a hospital, submerging of a street in rainwater, or recovery of a bottle from an accused. Therefore, it is the need of the hour to form a mechanism to ensure transparency.” He added, “Presently, there is no right of appeal in suo motu cases but in the proposed Bill we have given the right to the accused to file intra-court appeal within 30 days.” Additionally, another provision says that any application that has pleaded “urgency or seeking interim relief, filed in a cause, appeal or matter,” should be heard within 14 days from the date of its filing. Therefore, the recently passed bill would have allowed Nawaz Sharif and other parliamentarians disqualified by the Supreme Court under suo motu powers to appeal their disqualification within 30 days of the law’s enactment. Why were the CJP’s powers curtailed? One of the immediate triggers that led to the push of passing the bill was said to be the two supreme court judges’ dissenting verdict in a case related to the holding of elections in the Pakistani provinces of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which slammed the concentrated powers with the CJP. It also came amid tension between the government and Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, who is seen as supportive of PTI chief Imran Khan. The ousted PM has been demanding national elections and earlier this year forced the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) hand by dissolving the provincial assemblies in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. However, since the commission did not announce an election schedule, President Alvi, a PTI member, unilaterally decided that elections in the two provinces would be held in April, which prompted Bandial to take suo motu notice of the matter and initiate a hearing. The Supreme Court in a 3-2 verdict directed the ECP to go ahead with elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which led the two dissenting justices to raise opposition to the unlimited authority of the CJP. Pakistan SC strikes down the legislation On Friday, a three-member SC bench which included the CJP, struck down the bill that allowed the right of appeal under Article 184 of the constitution. The law which was passed on May 5 according to the incumbent government was aimed at “facilitating and strengthening the Supreme Court in exercising its powers to review its judgements and orders,” as quoted by the Dawn. However, the opposition viewed this move as an attempt to reverse the disqualification of PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif. The bill essentially expanded the jurisdiction of the court by giving a right to appeal under Article 184(3) and granted individuals the right to appeal within 30 days of a judgement in suo motu cases. However, a detailed verdict, a copy of which is available with Dawn, said that the law was “repugnant to and ultra vires the Constitution” while being beyond the legislative competence of Parliament. “In addition, the 2023 Act does not ‘enlarge’ review jurisdiction, it ‘creates’ a new appellate jurisdiction which has no constitutional basis, sanction or authorisation,” it added. “It is accordingly struck down as null and void and of no legal effect,” the order said, as quoted by media reports. Will it affect Nawaz’s return? The top court’s decision comes a day after outgoing PM Shehbaz Sharif said his elder brother Nawaz would return next month to Pakistan and would lead the PML-N campaign in the upcoming polls. After the verdict, former law minister Azam Nazeer Tarar told Geo News that the apex court’s verdict would have “no impact” on the cases related to the disqualification of the former PM Nawaz Sharif. He called the verdict “unfortunate” and said it is not a positive precedent for the courts to repeatedly intervene in parliamentary affairs and issue rulings that compromise its autonomy. When asked if the verdict could cause a delay in Nawaz’s expected return, Tarar said, “Not at all.” He also went on to refer to an amendment which he described as nearly unanimous legislation that limited the disqualification of lawmakers to a maximum of five years with retrospective effect. Nawaz and “dozens of others disqualified only in the cases of 184(3) are now, after five years, eligible to take part in elections under Article 232 (disqualification on account of offences) of the Elections Act,” reported Dawn. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | How Pakistan law which curbs Chief Justice’s powers also impacts former PM Nawaz Sharif’s return

Pakistan’s Supreme Court on Friday (August 11) declared the Supreme Court (Review of Judgements and Orders) Act 2023 null and void, dashing all hopes of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif of staging a comeback in the country’s politics.

ANI reported that Sharif and his party wanted to use the act to challenge his lifetime disqualifications in the country’s apex court.

The act was passed by Pakistan’s National Assembly (NA) on April 15, which aimed at giving the right of appeal under Article 184 of the Pakistani constitution.&nbsp;

A three-member bench of the top court, comprising Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Ijazul Ahsan, had reserved its order on June 19 after hearing multiple petitions against the law.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the court say?</h2>

The court observed that the law was “repugnant to and ultra vires the Constitution.” “It is accordingly struck down as null and void and of no legal effect,” it added.

Watch:&nbsp;Former PM Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan next month?

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“In addition, the 2023 Act does not ‘enlarge’ review jurisdiction, it ‘creates’ a new appellate jurisdiction which has no constitutional basis, sanction or authorisation,” the order said.

<h2>‘Order won’t have any impact on Nawaz Sharif’</h2>

Former law minister Azam Nazeer Tarar expressed his belief that the recent verdict by the apex court would not affect the cases involving the disqualification of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.&nbsp;

In a conversation with Geo News immediately after the verdict's announcement, Tarar referred to the verdict as “unfortunate”.&nbsp;

He stated that it is not a positive precedent for the courts to repeatedly intervene in parliamentary affairs and issue rulings that compromise its autonomy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharif-to-return-to-pakistan-next-month-pm-shehbaz-sharif-624381">Also read:&nbsp;Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan next month, says PM Shehbaz Sharif</a>

Responding to the question of whether the verdict might lead to a delay in Nawaz's anticipated return, Tarar confidently said, "Absolutely not." He pointed to an amendment made to the Elections Act, which he described as nearly unanimous legislation.&nbsp;

This amendment limited the disqualification of lawmakers to a maximum of five years, even with retrospective effect.

<h2>Why did govt bring the SC Act 2023?</h2>

The government maintains that the act was designed to support and “empower” the Supreme Court in its capacity to review judgments and orders. Nonetheless, the opposition viewed this move as an attempt to reverse the disqualification of PML-N leader Nawaz.

The legislative change expanded the Supreme Court's review jurisdiction, granting individuals the right to appeal within 30 days of a judgment in suo motu cases. Consequently, individuals like Nawaz and fellow parliamentarians, who had been disqualified by the Supreme Court in its original jurisdiction, would have the right to appeal their disqualification.

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Pakistan’s Supreme Court on Friday (August 11) declared the Supreme Court (Review of Judgements and Orders) Act 2023 null and void, dashing all hopes of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif of staging a comeback in the country’s politics.

Pakistan’s Supreme Court on Friday (August 11) declared the Supreme Court (Review of Judgements and Orders) Act 2023 null and void, dashing all hopes of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif of staging a comeback in the country’s politics. ANI reported that Sharif and his party wanted to use the act to challenge his lifetime disqualifications in the country’s apex court. The act was passed by Pakistan’s National Assembly (NA) on April 15, which aimed at giving the right of appeal under Article 184 of the Pakistani constitution. A three-member bench of the top court, comprising Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Ijazul Ahsan, had reserved its order on June 19 after hearing multiple petitions against the law. What did the court say? The court observed that the law was “repugnant to and ultra vires the Constitution.” “It is accordingly struck down as null and void and of no legal effect,” it added. Watch: Former PM Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan next month? × “In addition, the 2023 Act does not ‘enlarge’ review jurisdiction, it ‘creates’ a new appellate jurisdiction which has no constitutional basis, sanction or authorisation,” the order said. ‘Order won’t have any impact on Nawaz Sharif’ Former law minister Azam Nazeer Tarar expressed his belief that the recent verdict by the apex court would not affect the cases involving the disqualification of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. In a conversation with Geo News immediately after the verdict's announcement, Tarar referred to the verdict as “unfortunate”. He stated that it is not a positive precedent for the courts to repeatedly intervene in parliamentary affairs and issue rulings that compromise its autonomy. Also read: Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan next month, says PM Shehbaz Sharif Responding to the question of whether the verdict might lead to a delay in Nawaz's anticipated return, Tarar confidently said, "Absolutely not." He pointed to an amendment made to the Elections Act, which he described as nearly unanimous legislation. This amendment limited the disqualification of lawmakers to a maximum of five years, even with retrospective effect. Why did govt bring the SC Act 2023? The government maintains that the act was designed to support and “empower” the Supreme Court in its capacity to review judgments and orders. Nonetheless, the opposition viewed this move as an attempt to reverse the disqualification of PML-N leader Nawaz. The legislative change expanded the Supreme Court's review jurisdiction, granting individuals the right to appeal within 30 days of a judgment in suo motu cases. Consequently, individuals like Nawaz and fellow parliamentarians, who had been disqualified by the Supreme Court in its original jurisdiction, would have the right to appeal their disqualification. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Pakistan: Supreme Court trashes SC Act 2023, dashing ex-PM Nawaz Sharif’s comeback dream

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Wednesday (July 26) rejected former prime minister Imran Khan's plea seeking a stay on trial court proceedings in the Toshakhana case. Khan, the chairperson of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, had approached the Supreme Court after being denied relief from the Islamabad High Court. According to a report by Geo News, during Wednesday's hearing,&nbsp;Justice Yahya Afridi of the two-member SC bench said that the apex court will not interfere in the trial court's matters in the case.&nbsp;

Khan's lawyer&nbsp;Khawaja Haris told the SC that there were multiple petitions related to the&nbsp;jurisdiction of the trial court and the transfer of the case pending in the high court. To this, Justice Afridi directed the Islamabad High Court&nbsp;to hear Khan's pending petitions together. He pointed out that it was not the apex court's jurisdiction to hear the petition when there are related petitions sub-judice in the high court.&nbsp;

<h2>The case and Khan's plea</h2>

In October last year, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) disqualified Khan in&nbsp;the Toshakhana reference under Article 63(1)(p) of the Constitution for making false statements and incorrect declarations.

In May this year,&nbsp;Islamabad Additional District and Sessions Judge (ADSJ) Hamayun Dilawar rejected the former prime minister's&nbsp;challenge to the maintainability of the Toshakhana reference and indicted him in the case. The trial court's decision was challenged in the Islamabad High Court.&nbsp;

On July 4, the high court remanded the case back to the trial court to&nbsp;re-examine the matter in seven days. Subsequently, Khan moved the Supreme Court and urged it to set aside the High Court's directive. The former PM sought&nbsp;a stay on the proceedings before ADSJ Dilawar until his appeal was decided.

There are currently four petitions pending in the high court. The first is related to the latest order. In two pleas, Khan has challenged the jurisdiction of the trial court to hear the case. In the fourth petition, he sought a transfer of the case.&nbsp;

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Pakistan's Supreme Court on Wednesday (July 26) rejected former prime minister Imran Khan's plea seeking a stay on trial court proceedings in the Toshakhana case.

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Wednesday (July 26) rejected former prime minister Imran Khan's plea seeking a stay on trial court proceedings in the Toshakhana case. Khan, the chairperson of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, had approached the Supreme Court after being denied relief from the Islamabad High Court. According to a report by Geo News, during Wednesday's hearing, Justice Yahya Afridi of the two-member SC bench said that the apex court will not interfere in the trial court's matters in the case. Khan's lawyer Khawaja Haris told the SC that there were multiple petitions related to the jurisdiction of the trial court and the transfer of the case pending in the high court. To this, Justice Afridi directed the Islamabad High Court to hear Khan's pending petitions together. He pointed out that it was not the apex court's jurisdiction to hear the petition when there are related petitions sub-judice in the high court. The case and Khan's plea In October last year, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) disqualified Khan in the Toshakhana reference under Article 63(1)(p) of the Constitution for making false statements and incorrect declarations. In May this year, Islamabad Additional District and Sessions Judge (ADSJ) Hamayun Dilawar rejected the former prime minister's challenge to the maintainability of the Toshakhana reference and indicted him in the case. The trial court's decision was challenged in the Islamabad High Court. On July 4, the high court remanded the case back to the trial court to re-examine the matter in seven days. Subsequently, Khan moved the Supreme Court and urged it to set aside the High Court's directive. The former PM sought a stay on the proceedings before ADSJ Dilawar until his appeal was decided. There are currently four petitions pending in the high court. The first is related to the latest order. In two pleas, Khan has challenged the jurisdiction of the trial court to hear the case. In the fourth petition, he sought a transfer of the case. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Toshakhana case: Pak SC rejects Imran Khan's plea seeking stay on trial court proceedings

A new seven-member bench of Pakistan's Supreme Court has been formed to hear petitions against the trial of civilians in military courts on Thursday (June 22). This comes as a previous nine-member bench was dissolved following the concerns of two senior judges- Justice Qazi Faez Isa and Justice Sardar Tariq Masood.

A new seven-member bench of Pakistan's Supreme Court has been formed to hear petitions against the trial of civilians in military courts on Thursday (June 22). This comes as a previous nine-member bench was dissolved following the concerns of two senior judges- Justice Qazi Faez Isa and Justice Sardar Tariq Masood. According to a report by Geo News, Justice Isa and Justice Masoor are not a part of the new bench. The bench was set to meet at 2 pm. Earlier in the day, Justice Isa said that he did not consider the nine-member bench a bench with Justice Masood supporting him. Isa said the Supreme Court should first issue a verdict on the Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Act, 2023, and then constitute new benches. "I will not accept this court until a decision is issued on the Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Act. All decisions are unconstitutional until the verdict on this act is issued," he added. Isa also said he was not recusing from the bench. His remarks came during the hearing of petitions separately filed by former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan, former chief justice Jawwad S Khawaja and others against the trial of military courts. The Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Act, 2023 On April 13 this year, an SC bench said that Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Act, 2023 got the assent of the president, and the law would not be acted upon in any manner till further order. The ruling was issued on three petitions challenging the bill, under Article 184(3) of the Constitution, the report added. The law aimed at curbing the Chief Justice of Pakistan's (CJP) suo moto powers in an individual capacity. On Thursday, Justice Isa pointed out that he was surprised to see his name for Wednesday's hearing related to the bill. Nine member-bench constituted in line with law: CJP The previous nine-member bench that was to hear the petitions (against the trial of civilians in military courts) included CJP Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Isa, Justice Masood and Justice Ijazul Ahsan among others. Reacting to Isa's concerns, CJP Bandial said the bench was constituted in line with the law. What do the pleas say? In his plea against the trial of civilians in military courts, former Pakistan PM and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairperson Imran Khan urged the Supreme Court to declare arrests, investigation, and trial of civilians in peacetime under the Army Act and the Official Secrets Act against the Constitution. Former CJP Khawaja, meanwhile, filed his plea under Article 184(3), challenging the trials of civilians through military courts. “The petitioner has no personal interest in this case and the relief sought is for the benefit of all citizens regardless of political affiliation,” Khawaja said in his petition. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan: New SC bench formed to hear pleas against military trial of civilians after senior judges' concerns

Pakistan Supreme Court set up a larger bench on Wednesday (April 12) to hear petitions against the bill recently passed by the Parliament to curtail the powers of the Chief Justice.

Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial will preside over the proceedings of the eight-member bench, which will start hearing on Thursday against the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Bill.

Other members of the panel are Justice Ijazul Ahsan, Justice Muneeb Akhtar, Justice Mazahir Naqvi, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazahar Naqvi, Justice Ayesha Malik, Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi, and Justice Shahid Waheed.

The bill was passed again this week after President Dr Arif Alvi returned the original bill to the Parliament, urging the lawmakers to reconsider the proposed law. However, the Parliament in a joint sitting passed the same bill again and sent it to Alvi for assent.

The present can now delay it for ten days only and after the lapse of the mandatory period, it will become a law even without his signature.

The Express Tribune reported that one of the petitions filed by Advocate Shafay Munir claimed that the bill should be declared illegal and unconstitutional as only the top court had the authority to make its own rules.

The petition contended that the Constitution had made it clear that the ?independence of the judiciary? should be fully secured and the ?Parliament has no powers to pass such an act to curtail the powers of (the) Supreme Court or its Chief Justice or the judges?.

It maintained that the president had ?highlighted the aspects? that required reconsideration, but the Parliament failed to reconsider the same and passed the bill beyond its powers.

The petition stated that Article 191 of the Constitution stated that ?subject to the Constitution and law, the Supreme Court may make rules regulating the practice and procedure of the court?. It continued that the powers to make SC rules were ?expressly entrusted? to the court itself and not to the Parliament.

Therefore, it stated, the Parliament did not have the powers to ?enact any sort of legislation in relation to the powers and procedures of the Supreme Court?.

The petition prayed that the top court accept the petition and declare the bill as ?ultra vires and unconstitutional and of no legal effect?.

Earlier, the government sponsored bill was passed by the parliament to reduce the powers of the chief justice to take sup motu action and set up panels of judges for cases. It also provided the right of appeal against the suo motu decisions.

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Pakistan Supreme Court set up a larger bench on Wednesday (April 12) to hear petitions against the bill recently passed by the Parliament to curtail the powers of the Chief Justice.

Pakistan Supreme Court set up a larger bench on Wednesday (April 12) to hear petitions against the bill recently passed by the Parliament to curtail the powers of the Chief Justice. Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial will preside over the proceedings of the eight-member bench, which will start hearing on Thursday against the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Bill. Other members of the panel are Justice Ijazul Ahsan, Justice Muneeb Akhtar, Justice Mazahir Naqvi, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazahar Naqvi, Justice Ayesha Malik, Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi, and Justice Shahid Waheed. The bill was passed again this week after President Dr Arif Alvi returned the original bill to the Parliament, urging the lawmakers to reconsider the proposed law. However, the Parliament in a joint sitting passed the same bill again and sent it to Alvi for assent. The present can now delay it for ten days only and after the lapse of the mandatory period, it will become a law even without his signature. The Express Tribune reported that one of the petitions filed by Advocate Shafay Munir claimed that the bill should be declared illegal and unconstitutional as only the top court had the authority to make its own rules. The petition contended that the Constitution had made it clear that the ?independence of the judiciary? should be fully secured and the ?Parliament has no powers to pass such an act to curtail the powers of (the) Supreme Court or its Chief Justice or the judges?. It maintained that the president had ?highlighted the aspects? that required reconsideration, but the Parliament failed to reconsider the same and passed the bill beyond its powers. The petition stated that Article 191 of the Constitution stated that ?subject to the Constitution and law, the Supreme Court may make rules regulating the practice and procedure of the court?. It continued that the powers to make SC rules were ?expressly entrusted? to the court itself and not to the Parliament. Therefore, it stated, the Parliament did not have the powers to ?enact any sort of legislation in relation to the powers and procedures of the Supreme Court?. The petition prayed that the top court accept the petition and declare the bill as ?ultra vires and unconstitutional and of no legal effect?. Earlier, the government sponsored bill was passed by the parliament to reduce the powers of the chief justice to take sup motu action and set up panels of judges for cases. It also provided the right of appeal against the suo motu decisions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan SC sets up larger bench against bill recently passed to curtail powers of Chief Justice

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - Pakistan’s Supreme Court on Tuesday declared unconstitutional the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision to postpone the Punjab Assembly polls to October 8, and set the date of elections to May 14.

Pak SC strikes down poll body's decision to postpone Punjab polls | | Trending on WION

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Tuesday declared the election commission's (ECP) decision to postpone polls in the Punjab province till October 8. The apex court also fixed May 14 as the date for polls in the province.

Pak SC declares election commission's decision, Punjab election to be held on May 14

Pakistan’s Supreme Court on Tuesday declared unconstitutional the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision to postpone the Punjab Assembly polls to Oct 8, and set the date of elections to May 14.

The apex court, which acted upon a plea by Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, asked the election body to reinstate its previous election schedule, saying that it cannot breach the 90-day buffer time.

The verdict was given by a three-member bench, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial.

Earlier, the ECP had set the election date in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on April 30, but later postponed it to October 8, following which the PTI decided to challenge the order.

The top court&nbsp;said that the nomination papers should be finalised by April 10, and the election commission should publish the list of candidates on April 19, while the electoral symbols will be issued by April 20, Dawn newspaper reported.

<h2>Pakistan: A Tug of war between government and Judiciary</h2>

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While pronouncing the verdict, the court observed that ECP wasted 13 days because of its unlawful decision, and directed the caretaker government in Punjab to assist the commission. It also&nbsp;instructed the ECP to inform the top court if the government refused to do so.

Further, the apex court ordered the federal government to release Rs 21 billion for elections in Punjab by April 10, and take measures to provide additional security in the province.

The court ordered the ECP to submit a report on the matter in court the same day. “In the case of non-provision of funds, the court will issue an appropriate order.” “Elections should be conducted transparently and impartially,” the apex court added.

Notably, at the time of the hearing, the parliament passed the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Bill, 2023, to curtail the powers of the chief justice. However, President Arif Alvi is yet to sign it.

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Pakistan’s Supreme Court on Tuesday declared unconstitutional the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision to postpone the Punjab Assembly polls to Oct 8, and set the date of elections to May 14.

Pakistan’s Supreme Court on Tuesday declared unconstitutional the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision to postpone the Punjab Assembly polls to Oct 8, and set the date of elections to May 14. The apex court, which acted upon a plea by Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, asked the election body to reinstate its previous election schedule, saying that it cannot breach the 90-day buffer time. The verdict was given by a three-member bench, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial. Earlier, the ECP had set the election date in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on April 30, but later postponed it to October 8, following which the PTI decided to challenge the order. The top court said that the nomination papers should be finalised by April 10, and the election commission should publish the list of candidates on April 19, while the electoral symbols will be issued by April 20, Dawn newspaper reported. Pakistan: A Tug of war between government and Judiciary While pronouncing the verdict, the court observed that ECP wasted 13 days because of its unlawful decision, and directed the caretaker government in Punjab to assist the commission. It also instructed the ECP to inform the top court if the government refused to do so. Further, the apex court ordered the federal government to release Rs 21 billion for elections in Punjab by April 10, and take measures to provide additional security in the province. The court ordered the ECP to submit a report on the matter in court the same day. “In the case of non-provision of funds, the court will issue an appropriate order.” “Elections should be conducted transparently and impartially,” the apex court added. Notably, at the time of the hearing, the parliament passed the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Bill, 2023, to curtail the powers of the chief justice. However, President Arif Alvi is yet to sign it. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan SC strikes down poll body’s decision to postpone Punjab elections, fixes May 14 as new date

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Monday ordered to register a case on the assassination bid on PTI supremo Imran Khan within 24 hours.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan SC orders police to register FIR of attack on Imran Khan within 24 hours

In a major setback to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the ruling coalition, Pakistan's Supreme Court has named PML-Q leader Chaudhry Parvez Elahi as the chief minister of Punjab.

Striking down the Punjab Assembly deputy speaker's controversial decision to reject 10 votes during the chief minister's election as unconstitutional, the court said Elahi lost the election held on Friday despite getting a majority vote.

Challenging the ruling of deputy speaker Sardar Dost Muhammad Mazari, Elahi was supported by ousted Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party.

Ruling that 76-year-old Elahi is the chief minister of Punjab province, a three-member bench ordered the Punjab Governor or President&nbsp;Arif Alvi to swear him in.

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Ordering the members of his cabinet to vacate their offices, the court declared all the appointments made by Hamza ''illegal''.

After Deputy Speaker Mazari rejected 10 votes of his Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) lawmakers, Elahi secured 186 votes against 179 votes of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) candidate Hamza Shehbaz.

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Following PML-Q chief Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain's letter to his party lawmakers to vote for Hamza, Mazari refused to count the vote.

Asking Hamza to continue as chief minister Mazari's ruling was challenged by Elahi and the court on Saturday. Elahi's loss comes as a new turn amid the turmoil in the Punjab province since April.&nbsp;

Saying it will have to hear more arguments before taking a decision on the issue, the Supreme Court refused to form a full bench to hear the case related to the re-election of Hamza.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

In a major setback to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the ruling coalition, Pakistan's Supreme Court has named PML-Q leader Chaudhry Parvez Elahi as the chief minister of Punjab.

In a major setback to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the ruling coalition, Pakistan's Supreme Court has named PML-Q leader Chaudhry Parvez Elahi as the chief minister of Punjab. Striking down the Punjab Assembly deputy speaker's controversial decision to reject 10 votes during the chief minister's election as unconstitutional, the court said Elahi lost the election held on Friday despite getting a majority vote. Challenging the ruling of deputy speaker Sardar Dost Muhammad Mazari, Elahi was supported by ousted Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party. Ruling that 76-year-old Elahi is the chief minister of Punjab province, a three-member bench ordered the Punjab Governor or President Arif Alvi to swear him in. #WATCH | Pakistan President Arif Alvi administers oath of office, PML-Q leader Chaudhry Parvez Elahi becomes the new CM of Punjab, at the President House, hours after the Supreme Court struck down Punjab Assembly deputy speaker’s ruling (Source: Govt of Punjab, Pakistan Twitter) pic.twitter.com/GJVyHJqujA — ANI (@ANI) July 26, 2022 × Ordering the members of his cabinet to vacate their offices, the court declared all the appointments made by Hamza ''illegal''. After Deputy Speaker Mazari rejected 10 votes of his Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) lawmakers, Elahi secured 186 votes against 179 votes of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) candidate Hamza Shehbaz. × Following PML-Q chief Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain's letter to his party lawmakers to vote for Hamza, Mazari refused to count the vote. Asking Hamza to continue as chief minister Mazari's ruling was challenged by Elahi and the court on Saturday. Elahi's loss comes as a new turn amid the turmoil in the Punjab province since April. Saying it will have to hear more arguments before taking a decision on the issue, the Supreme Court refused to form a full bench to hear the case related to the re-election of Hamza. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Pakistani Supreme Court names Parvez Elahi as Punjab chief minister

The Pakistan president's office wrote to the country's Election Commission on Wednesday to hold elections after the National Assembly was dissolved on April 3.

The notification said the "president shall appoint a date, no later than 90 days from the date of dissolution of National Assembly" to hold the general election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-security-agencies-found-no-credible-evidence-of-foreign-plot-against-imran-govt-468619">Also Read:&nbsp;Pakistan's security agencies found no credible evidence of ‘foreign plot’</a>

The letter requested&nbsp;the Election Commission on the proposed dates for holding the election in accordance to the provisions of the constitution.

The move comes even as Pakistan's Supreme Court is hearing an argument related to the dissolution of the National Assembly. PM Imran Khan has been named the caretaker prime minister until a new name is proposed.

Watch: Pakistan's political crisis reaches Supreme Court

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Khan's key ally the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) had walked out of the government ahead of the vote on Sunday.

PM Imran Khan faced a no-confidence vote in Parliament however the deputy speaker dismissed the motion as the prime minister called for a dissolution of the house in a dramatic TV appearance as the Parliament was in session.

The opposition then challenged the decision to block the vote in the Supreme Court. The five-judge panel is currently hearing the argument from both sides, however, the exact date of the final ruling is unconfirmed.

On Wednesday, the Pakistan Supreme Court adjourned the hearing which was taken up again on Wednesday as opposition lawyer Makhdoom Ali Khan said Prime Minister Imran Khan's move was in violation of the constitution.

"This is not just a matter of procedure but it is in negation of parliamentary democracy," Makhdoom Ali Khan told the court. The court is hearing PM Imran Khan's side today.

Imran Khan came to power in 2018 promising a "Naya(naya) Pakistan",&nbsp;however, the country has been hit by high inflation and economic crisis.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

The Pakistan president's office wrote to the country's Election Commission on Wednesday to hold elections after the National Assembly was dissolved on April 3. The notification said the "president shall appoint a date, no later than 90 days from the date of dissolution of National Assembly" to hold the general election.

The Pakistan president's office wrote to the country's Election Commission on Wednesday to hold elections after the National Assembly was dissolved on April 3. The notification said the "president shall appoint a date, no later than 90 days from the date of dissolution of National Assembly" to hold the general election. Also Read: Pakistan's security agencies found no credible evidence of ‘foreign plot’ The letter requested the Election Commission on the proposed dates for holding the election in accordance to the provisions of the constitution. The move comes even as Pakistan's Supreme Court is hearing an argument related to the dissolution of the National Assembly. PM Imran Khan has been named the caretaker prime minister until a new name is proposed. Watch: Pakistan's political crisis reaches Supreme Court Khan's key ally the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) had walked out of the government ahead of the vote on Sunday. PM Imran Khan faced a no-confidence vote in Parliament however the deputy speaker dismissed the motion as the prime minister called for a dissolution of the house in a dramatic TV appearance as the Parliament was in session. The opposition then challenged the decision to block the vote in the Supreme Court. The five-judge panel is currently hearing the argument from both sides, however, the exact date of the final ruling is unconfirmed. On Wednesday, the Pakistan Supreme Court adjourned the hearing which was taken up again on Wednesday as opposition lawyer Makhdoom Ali Khan said Prime Minister Imran Khan's move was in violation of the constitution. "This is not just a matter of procedure but it is in negation of parliamentary democracy," Makhdoom Ali Khan told the court. The court is hearing PM Imran Khan's side today. Imran Khan came to power in 2018 promising a "Naya(naya) Pakistan", however, the country has been hit by high inflation and economic crisis. (With inputs from Agencies)

Pakistan President's office writes to Election Commission to hold polls

Pakistan Supreme Court expressed doubts on the jurisdiction of the deputy speaker who called the no-confidence motion filed by the opposition members “unconstitutional” and rejected their plea.

The top court’s comments came on Monday as it began hearing the high-profile case after it took suo moto cognizance of the matter.

A day earlier, the opposition had approached the SC against Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri for rejecting the no-trust motion against Prime Minister Imran Khan citing so-called foreign conspiracy.

A five-member larger bench was convened which comprised Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Ijazul Ahsan, Justice Mazhar Alam Khan Miankhel, Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail.

During the hearing, Justice Ahsan noted that there were violations in the proceedings of the no-confidence motion, PTI news agency quoted Dawn newspaper.

Similarly, Justice Akhtar expressed doubts over the deputy speaker's constitutional authority to pass such a ruling, the paper said.

He said, “In my opinion, only the speaker had the right to pass the ruling. The Deputy Speaker chairs the session on the non-availability of the Speaker."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-political-crisis-imran-khan-nominates-former-cjp-gulzar-ahmed-as-caretaker-pm-468245">Pakistan's political crisis: Imran Khan nominates former CJP as caretaker PM</a>

Justice Bandial observed that a debate before voting on the no-confidence motion had been clearly mentioned in the law but didn't take place.

Representing the joint opposition, Farooq H Naek urged the top court to issue a verdict on the matter today (Monday).

However, Justice Ahsan denied his request saying that it was impossible to pass the verdict in a day as the court’s decision will have far-reaching outcomes.

"We can't pass a decision in the air," Justice Bandial said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/why-the-fear-of-elections-now-imran-khans-new-barb-as-opposition-decries-snap-polls-468166" hreflang="en">‘Why fear elections now?’: Imran Khan’s barb at opposition</a>

The Supreme Court then adjourned the hearing till 12 pm on Tuesday.

On Sunday, after a brief hearing, the court issued a written order saying that it would like to "examine whether such an action (dismissal of the no-trust motion on the basis of Article 5) is protected by the ouster (removal from the court's jurisdiction) contained in Article 69 of the Constitution."

The decision of the court would also determine the legality of the presidential order to dissolve the National Assembly.

Watch |&nbsp;Protest in Pakistan after multiple state addresses by Imran Khan amid political crisis

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(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Supreme Court expressed doubts on the jurisdiction of the deputy speaker who called the no-confidence motion filed by the opposition members “unconstitutional” and rejected their plea.

Pakistan Supreme Court expressed doubts on the jurisdiction of the deputy speaker who called the no-confidence motion filed by the opposition members “unconstitutional” and rejected their plea. The top court’s comments came on Monday as it began hearing the high-profile case after it took suo moto cognizance of the matter. A day earlier, the opposition had approached the SC against Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri for rejecting the no-trust motion against Prime Minister Imran Khan citing so-called foreign conspiracy. A five-member larger bench was convened which comprised Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Ijazul Ahsan, Justice Mazhar Alam Khan Miankhel, Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail. During the hearing, Justice Ahsan noted that there were violations in the proceedings of the no-confidence motion, PTI news agency quoted Dawn newspaper. Similarly, Justice Akhtar expressed doubts over the deputy speaker's constitutional authority to pass such a ruling, the paper said. He said, “In my opinion, only the speaker had the right to pass the ruling. The Deputy Speaker chairs the session on the non-availability of the Speaker." Also read | Pakistan's political crisis: Imran Khan nominates former CJP as caretaker PM Justice Bandial observed that a debate before voting on the no-confidence motion had been clearly mentioned in the law but didn't take place. Representing the joint opposition, Farooq H Naek urged the top court to issue a verdict on the matter today (Monday). However, Justice Ahsan denied his request saying that it was impossible to pass the verdict in a day as the court’s decision will have far-reaching outcomes. "We can't pass a decision in the air," Justice Bandial said. Also read | ‘Why fear elections now?’: Imran Khan’s barb at opposition The Supreme Court then adjourned the hearing till 12 pm on Tuesday. On Sunday, after a brief hearing, the court issued a written order saying that it would like to "examine whether such an action (dismissal of the no-trust motion on the basis of Article 5) is protected by the ouster (removal from the court's jurisdiction) contained in Article 69 of the Constitution." The decision of the court would also determine the legality of the presidential order to dissolve the National Assembly. Watch | Protest in Pakistan after multiple state addresses by Imran Khan amid political crisis (With inputs from agencies)

Pak SC notes violations in no-trust proceedings, says Dy Speaker has no authority to pass ruling

Wife of Qazi Faez Isa, senior judge of Pakistan Supreme Court wrote a letter to Sindh and federal governments saying she was harassed by some people who barged into her house on December 29. As reported by The News, Serena Isa said that abuses were hurled at her.

Sarina Isa stated that she was looking after the white-wash process at her Defence residence in Karachi along with her daughter when two unidentified persons entered their house, harassed her, hurled threats and sought personal and family information from her.

She said that after some time, two more such persons came there and threatened them. After they left the place, two more persons entered her residence and asked various questions in a threatening tone.

She said all those people said they were government department’s personnel. In her three-page letter, she demanded the government hold an inquiry into the incident, the report said.

As per Dawn, the letter has been addressed to Sindh inspector general of police, defence ministry secretary, interior ministry secretary and Sindh home department secretary.

In her letter, Sarina Isa said that the men claimed to be from military intelligence. But when she asked for their ID cards, they refused to provide. As per Sarina, the men did not have any written authorisation that permitted them to enter the house.

(With inputs from agencies)

Wife of Qazi Faez Isa, senior judge of Pakistan Supreme Court wrote a letter to Sindh and federal governments saying she was harassed by some people who barged into her house on December 29.

Wife of Qazi Faez Isa, senior judge of Pakistan Supreme Court wrote a letter to Sindh and federal governments saying she was harassed by some people who barged into her house on December 29. As reported by The News, Serena Isa said that abuses were hurled at her. Sarina Isa stated that she was looking after the white-wash process at her Defence residence in Karachi along with her daughter when two unidentified persons entered their house, harassed her, hurled threats and sought personal and family information from her. She said that after some time, two more such persons came there and threatened them. After they left the place, two more persons entered her residence and asked various questions in a threatening tone. She said all those people said they were government department’s personnel. In her three-page letter, she demanded the government hold an inquiry into the incident, the report said. As per Dawn, the letter has been addressed to Sindh inspector general of police, defence ministry secretary, interior ministry secretary and Sindh home department secretary. In her letter, Sarina Isa said that the men claimed to be from military intelligence. But when she asked for their ID cards, they refused to provide. As per Sarina, the men did not have any written authorisation that permitted them to enter the house. (With inputs from agencies)

Wife of Pakistan Supreme Court judge complains of harassment by unknown men

Pakistan's Supreme Court has come down heavily on the country's military establishment, pointing out that land meant for defence purposes was being misused for commercial activities.

The three-judge bench belonging to the country's top court was hearing a case relating to the illegal use of cantonment board lands in Karachi.

The case relates to the construction of Falcon Mall in Karachi in 2016. The land is under the jurisdiction of the Pakistan Air Force&nbsp;(PAF). The mall hasn't been opened to the public.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-seeks-nearly-20-increase-in-salaries-of-personnel-298421">Also Read:&nbsp;Pakistan Army seeks nearly 20% increase in salaries of personnel</a>

Reports claim the Pakistan Air Force has purportedly changed the structure that was built originally for the mall into a war college institute, as per images on social media.

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PAF builds a commercial shopping mall on what’s supposed to be an Air Force base, calls it ‘falcon mall’. 
 
Supreme Court says give back land you aren’t using for active military purposes. 
 
PAF labels the mall ‘air war college institute’. <a href="https://t.co/36aG9hsF68">pic.twitter.com/36aG9hsF68</a>
— Abdul Moiz Jaferii (@Jaferii) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaferii/status/1473133862893109249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The chief justice had ordered the country's defence secretary to appear in court to answer questions related to the case.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/intelligence-agencies-reveal-pakistan-armys-strategy-to-unleash-terror-in-jk-336337">Also Read:&nbsp;Intelligence agencies reveal Pakistan Army's strategy to unleash terror in J&amp;K</a>

Retired Lt Gen Mian Hilal Hussain was questioned by the country's Supreme Court.&nbsp;Hussain, who is the secretary of defence currently, assured the court that cantonment land will not be used for commercial purposes.

The chief justice noted that cantonment lands across the country were being misused including three bases which were reportedly meant for the Pakistan Air Force were being used for commercial activities.&nbsp;Also, wedding halls and hotels were reportedly being constructed at what's supposed to be a naval base.

The court noted that the Canteen Stores Department (CSD) was being converted an "open commercial department store". The court hit out against Hussain for the alleged misuse and asked the government to file a report on cantonment lands which were being illegally used for commercial purposes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/why-has-nawaz-sharif-taken-stance-against-pakistan-army-330315">Also Read:&nbsp;Why has Nawaz Sharif taken a stance against Pakistan Army?</a>

The country's Attorney General Khalid Jawed Khan informed the court that a committee has been set up comprising of three service chiefs to look into the land violations.&nbsp;The court called the use of land as a "matter of embarrassment".

The country's apex court reportedly pointed out that army officials had purchased lands and sold it which were then being used by individuals to build houses with no sign of a "garrison" located on lands meant for the defence forces.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Pakistan's Supreme Court has come down heavily on the country's military establishment, pointing out that land meant for defence purposes was being misused for commercial activities.

Pakistan's Supreme Court has come down heavily on the country's military establishment, pointing out that land meant for defence purposes was being misused for commercial activities. The three-judge bench belonging to the country's top court was hearing a case relating to the illegal use of cantonment board lands in Karachi. The case relates to the construction of Falcon Mall in Karachi in 2016. The land is under the jurisdiction of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). The mall hasn't been opened to the public. Also Read: Pakistan Army seeks nearly 20% increase in salaries of personnel Reports claim the Pakistan Air Force has purportedly changed the structure that was built originally for the mall into a war college institute, as per images on social media. PAF builds a commercial shopping mall on what’s supposed to be an Air Force base, calls it ‘falcon mall’. Supreme Court says give back land you aren’t using for active military purposes. PAF labels the mall ‘air war college institute’. pic.twitter.com/36aG9hsF68 — Abdul Moiz Jaferii (@Jaferii) December 21, 2021 × The chief justice had ordered the country's defence secretary to appear in court to answer questions related to the case. Also Read: Intelligence agencies reveal Pakistan Army's strategy to unleash terror in J&K Retired Lt Gen Mian Hilal Hussain was questioned by the country's Supreme Court. Hussain, who is the secretary of defence currently, assured the court that cantonment land will not be used for commercial purposes. The chief justice noted that cantonment lands across the country were being misused including three bases which were reportedly meant for the Pakistan Air Force were being used for commercial activities. Also, wedding halls and hotels were reportedly being constructed at what's supposed to be a naval base. The court noted that the Canteen Stores Department (CSD) was being converted an "open commercial department store". The court hit out against Hussain for the alleged misuse and asked the government to file a report on cantonment lands which were being illegally used for commercial purposes. Also Read: Why has Nawaz Sharif taken a stance against Pakistan Army? The country's Attorney General Khalid Jawed Khan informed the court that a committee has been set up comprising of three service chiefs to look into the land violations. The court called the use of land as a "matter of embarrassment". The country's apex court reportedly pointed out that army officials had purchased lands and sold it which were then being used by individuals to build houses with no sign of a "garrison" located on lands meant for the defence forces. (With inputs from Agencies)

Mall on defence land: How Pak military misused land for commercial purposes

The Pakistan Supreme Court has barred the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) from demolishing a Hindu Dharamshala in Karachi and leasing it out to an individual. 
 
A three-judge bench issued the order in the case related to the implementation of a 2014 judgment on minorities rights. 
 
Ramesh Kumar, the co-opted member of the one-man commission on minorities, upraised the court that the property, located in the heart of Saddar Town in Karachi city and measuring about 716 square yards, was a Dharamshala. 
 
Kumar also submitted photographs of the building and told the Supreme Court that the ETPB had leased the property to the individual for the demolition and allowed construction of a commercial plaza. 
 
The Supreme Court`s order in the case, maintained: "The very photograph apparently shows that the building is of a Dharamshala constructed in the year 1932, which can be read from the marble slab affixed on the building and must be protected heritage building." 
 
The court issued a notice to the Sindh provincial secretary heritage, asking for a report on the building and barred authorities from demolishing it. 
 
"In the meantime, no demolition activity of the said building shall be conducted by anyone and possession of the building and the land shall be taken over by the Commissioner Karachi, who shall manage the same and not allow any person to enter upon it," the order added. 
 
The court noted that the one-man commission has also requested for allocation of more funds for clearance of outstanding liabilities and also for allocation of budget for the year. 
 
"In the meantime, the amount of 14.994 million PKR be disbursed to the commission. For allocation of a new budget, let a proper response be filed by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony."

The Pakistan Supreme Court has barred the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) from demolishing a Hindu Dharamshala in Karachi and leasing it out to an individual.

The Pakistan Supreme Court has barred the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) from demolishing a Hindu Dharamshala in Karachi and leasing it out to an individual. A three-judge bench issued the order in the case related to the implementation of a 2014 judgment on minorities rights. Ramesh Kumar, the co-opted member of the one-man commission on minorities, upraised the court that the property, located in the heart of Saddar Town in Karachi city and measuring about 716 square yards, was a Dharamshala. Kumar also submitted photographs of the building and told the Supreme Court that the ETPB had leased the property to the individual for the demolition and allowed construction of a commercial plaza. The Supreme Court`s order in the case, maintained: "The very photograph apparently shows that the building is of a Dharamshala constructed in the year 1932, which can be read from the marble slab affixed on the building and must be protected heritage building." The court issued a notice to the Sindh provincial secretary heritage, asking for a report on the building and barred authorities from demolishing it. "In the meantime, no demolition activity of the said building shall be conducted by anyone and possession of the building and the land shall be taken over by the Commissioner Karachi, who shall manage the same and not allow any person to enter upon it," the order added. The court noted that the one-man commission has also requested for allocation of more funds for clearance of outstanding liabilities and also for allocation of budget for the year. "In the meantime, the amount of 14.994 million PKR be disbursed to the commission. For allocation of a new budget, let a proper response be filed by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony."

Pakistan Supreme Court stops demolition of Hindu dharamshala

Pakistan's Supreme Court has criticised the prosecution for its failure to prove the guilt of British-born al-Qaeda terrorist Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, the main accused in the sensational kidnapping and murder of US journalist Daniel Pearl in 2002, according to a media report.

The apex court issued its detailed 43-page judgment on Friday, which has been authored by Justice Sardar Tariq Masood -&nbsp;who was part of the three-member bench.

Dawn newspaper reported that the judges held that the evidence furnished during the trial was full of factual and legal defects.

The judgement explains the reasons why the Supreme Court had on January 28 acquitted, by a majority of two to one, Omar Sheikh and others and ordered the release of the principal suspect as well as Fahad Nasim Ahmed, Syed Salman Saqib and Shaikh Mohammd Adil from the jail forthwith, if not required to be detained in connection with any other case.

Pearl, 38, was the South Asia bureau chief of The Wall Street Journal. His murder took place three years after Sheikh, along with Jaish-e-Mohammad chief (JeM) Masood Azhar and Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar, was released by India in 1999 and given safe passage to Afghanistan in exchange for the nearly 150 passengers of hijacked Indian Airlines Flight 814.

The Sindh High Court (SHC) on April 2, 2020 commuted the death sentence of Sheikh convicted of kidnapping and murdering US journalist Pearl in 2002 to seven years and acquitted three others who were serving life terms in the case --&nbsp;almost two decades after they were found guilty and jailed.

The SC on January 28 ordered authorities to release the accused while issuing a split order. The third member of the bench Justice Yahya Afridi did not agree with the majority view and issued a dissenting note. Justice Yahya Afridi, a member of the bench, had dissented from the majority opinion.

The judgment said the majority of judges were entertaining no amount of doubt that prosecution had failed to bring home guilt of the accused/respondents and appellant as the evidence furnished during the trial is full of factual and legal defects.

"In this case, regarding each and every piece of evidence, the doubts are emerging from the mouth of the witnesses, and it is settled since centuries that the benefit of doubt automatically goes in favour of an accused,? the verdict said.

Even if a single circumstance created reasonable doubt in a prudent mind regarding the guilt of an accused then the accused was entitled to such benefit, not as a matter of grace and concession but of right, and such benefit must be extended to the accused persons by the courts without any reservation, the verdict said.

Thus the SHC had rightly extended the benefit of the doubt to Fahad Nasim Ahmed, Syed Salman Saqib and Sheikh Mohammad Adil and acquitted them of all the charges and had also rightly extended the benefit of the doubt to Omar Sheikh regarding all other charges, the judgement said.

But the SHC wrongly convicted him under Section 362 of the PPC when the evidence of Nasir Abbas was full of doubts and no reliance could be placed on such a doubtful statement.

So the conviction of Sheikh was not justified, the judgement said, adding that though the counsel for the parents of Pearl argued that it was a high-profile case, even in such cases the benefit of the doubt could not be extended to the prosecution.

Meanwhile, Justice Afridi in his 52-page dissenting note observed that in cases of conspiracy, direct evidence was seldom available and a conspiracy could be established by circumstantial evidence.

Voicing outrage over the acquittal of Sheikh and his aides, the White House had asked Pakistan to expeditiously review its legal options, including allowing the US to prosecute them to secure justice for Pearl's family.

Amid mounting pressure from the US and the UN, the federal government filed an application before the apex court to be allowed to join as a party in the proceedings and further seek review and recall of the court's January 28 judgement.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Supreme Court has criticised the prosecution for its failure to prove the guilt of British-born al-Qaeda terrorist Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, the main accused in the sensational kidnapping and murder of US journalist Daniel Pearl in 2002, according to a media report.

Pakistan's Supreme Court has criticised the prosecution for its failure to prove the guilt of British-born al-Qaeda terrorist Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, the main accused in the sensational kidnapping and murder of US journalist Daniel Pearl in 2002, according to a media report. The apex court issued its detailed 43-page judgment on Friday, which has been authored by Justice Sardar Tariq Masood - who was part of the three-member bench. Dawn newspaper reported that the judges held that the evidence furnished during the trial was full of factual and legal defects. The judgement explains the reasons why the Supreme Court had on January 28 acquitted, by a majority of two to one, Omar Sheikh and others and ordered the release of the principal suspect as well as Fahad Nasim Ahmed, Syed Salman Saqib and Shaikh Mohammd Adil from the jail forthwith, if not required to be detained in connection with any other case. Pearl, 38, was the South Asia bureau chief of The Wall Street Journal. His murder took place three years after Sheikh, along with Jaish-e-Mohammad chief (JeM) Masood Azhar and Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar, was released by India in 1999 and given safe passage to Afghanistan in exchange for the nearly 150 passengers of hijacked Indian Airlines Flight 814. The Sindh High Court (SHC) on April 2, 2020 commuted the death sentence of Sheikh convicted of kidnapping and murdering US journalist Pearl in 2002 to seven years and acquitted three others who were serving life terms in the case -- almost two decades after they were found guilty and jailed. The SC on January 28 ordered authorities to release the accused while issuing a split order. The third member of the bench Justice Yahya Afridi did not agree with the majority view and issued a dissenting note. Justice Yahya Afridi, a member of the bench, had dissented from the majority opinion. The judgment said the majority of judges were entertaining no amount of doubt that prosecution had failed to bring home guilt of the accused/respondents and appellant as the evidence furnished during the trial is full of factual and legal defects. "In this case, regarding each and every piece of evidence, the doubts are emerging from the mouth of the witnesses, and it is settled since centuries that the benefit of doubt automatically goes in favour of an accused,? the verdict said. Even if a single circumstance created reasonable doubt in a prudent mind regarding the guilt of an accused then the accused was entitled to such benefit, not as a matter of grace and concession but of right, and such benefit must be extended to the accused persons by the courts without any reservation, the verdict said. Thus the SHC had rightly extended the benefit of the doubt to Fahad Nasim Ahmed, Syed Salman Saqib and Sheikh Mohammad Adil and acquitted them of all the charges and had also rightly extended the benefit of the doubt to Omar Sheikh regarding all other charges, the judgement said. But the SHC wrongly convicted him under Section 362 of the PPC when the evidence of Nasir Abbas was full of doubts and no reliance could be placed on such a doubtful statement. So the conviction of Sheikh was not justified, the judgement said, adding that though the counsel for the parents of Pearl argued that it was a high-profile case, even in such cases the benefit of the doubt could not be extended to the prosecution. Meanwhile, Justice Afridi in his 52-page dissenting note observed that in cases of conspiracy, direct evidence was seldom available and a conspiracy could be established by circumstantial evidence. Voicing outrage over the acquittal of Sheikh and his aides, the White House had asked Pakistan to expeditiously review its legal options, including allowing the US to prosecute them to secure justice for Pearl's family. Amid mounting pressure from the US and the UN, the federal government filed an application before the apex court to be allowed to join as a party in the proceedings and further seek review and recall of the court's January 28 judgement.

Prosecution failed to prove guilt of main accused in Daniel Pearl case: Pak SC

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