The Sindh High Court Bar Association and judicial commission member from Sindh has moved the Islamabad High Court for setting up of an independent commission to ascertain the authenticity of the leaked audio clip of Pakistan's former Chief Justice, Saqib Nisar.

Petition filed in Islamabad HC to bring out truth of leaked audio clip of Pak's former Chief Justice

Leaked audio of conversation of former Pakistani Chief Justice Saqib Nisar reveals he passed instructions to sentence former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. "Institutions have asked to do so. Whether it is fair or not, it has to be done," Justice Nisar can be heard saying. The term "institutions" here is synonymous with the military establishment.&nbsp;

The former Chief Justice continues to say that Nawaz Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz would have to be punished as well. "Even though there are no cases against Maryam Nawaz, she would still have to be punished," he said.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/leaked-recording-of-ex-pakistan-cj-saqib-nisar-on-nawaz-sharif-fabricated-431251/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Speaking of the judiciary, Justice Saqib Nisar can be heard saying, "there will remain no independence of the judiciary, so let it be."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/for-fourth-time-pakistan-lifts-ban-on-chinese-video-sharing-app-tiktok-430720">Also read |&nbsp;For fourth time, Pakistan lifts ban on Chinese video-sharing app TikTok</a>

Justice Saqib Nisar has denied the authenticity of the video as he said that it is fabricated.&nbsp;

Speaking to Geo News on Sunday, he said, "The audio clip is being falsely associated with me." He further said that &nbsp;he is thinking about "which legal option to go with."

As a reaction to the entire incident, Maryam Nawaz took to her Twitter as she wrote, "Allah hu Akbar," which means God is great.&nbsp;

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اللّہ اکبر 🙏🏼
— Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaryamNSharif/status/1462476308575830016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Fact Focus claimed that it had obtained this audio nearly two months ago. However, it had sent the audio to be examined by a leading American firm, Garrett Discovery, which specialises in multimedia forensics.&nbsp;

The firm’s analysis report certifies the integrity of the audio file. It further said that “this audio has not been edited in any way”.

Leaked audio of conversation of former Pakistani Chief Justice Saqib Nisar reveals he passed instructions to sentence former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. "Institutions have asked to do so.

Leaked audio of conversation of former Pakistani Chief Justice Saqib Nisar reveals he passed instructions to sentence former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. "Institutions have asked to do so. Whether it is fair or not, it has to be done," Justice Nisar can be heard saying. The term "institutions" here is synonymous with the military establishment. The former Chief Justice continues to say that Nawaz Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz would have to be punished as well. "Even though there are no cases against Maryam Nawaz, she would still have to be punished," he said. Speaking of the judiciary, Justice Saqib Nisar can be heard saying, "there will remain no independence of the judiciary, so let it be." Also read | For fourth time, Pakistan lifts ban on Chinese video-sharing app TikTok Justice Saqib Nisar has denied the authenticity of the video as he said that it is fabricated. Speaking to Geo News on Sunday, he said, "The audio clip is being falsely associated with me." He further said that he is thinking about "which legal option to go with." As a reaction to the entire incident, Maryam Nawaz took to her Twitter as she wrote, "Allah hu Akbar," which means God is great. اللّہ اکبر 🙏🏼 — Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) November 21, 2021 × Fact Focus claimed that it had obtained this audio nearly two months ago. However, it had sent the audio to be examined by a leading American firm, Garrett Discovery, which specialises in multimedia forensics. The firm’s analysis report certifies the integrity of the audio file. It further said that “this audio has not been edited in any way”.

Leaked audio reveals Justice Saqib Nisar ordered to jail Nawaz Sharif as 'institutions' wanted Imran in power

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/russian-firm-offers-to-invest-2-billion-in-pakistans-water-power-sectors-190952&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjF96yh5_TfAhXEad4KHUxWAWAQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0zj-fSfWREL6KoIZ895YHe">Pakistan</a> swears in a new chief justice on Friday, opening the next chapter for the Supreme Court which has made a name for an expansive agenda that has ranged from ousting a prime minister to pressing authorities to improve the public water supply.

Outgoing Chief Justice Saqib Nisar cultivated a high profile, launching multiple inquiries aimed at reforming public institutions and going after political leaders, attracting both praises for cracking down on abuse and criticism that he was exceeding the court's role.

His successor, Supreme Court judge Asif Saeed Khosa, has a taste for literary quotation but is otherwise considered a more classical judge, preferring to stay out of the limelight.

"I think Justice Khosa's tenure will be substantially different," said Saroop Ijaz, a lawyer for Human Rights Watch, who has been critical of Nisar's activist court.

In one of its best-known judgments, the<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-ram-nath-kovind-appoints-justice-dinesh-maheshwari-as-supreme-court-judge-190792&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwju7LSc6PTfAhVMdXAKHSq-CqcQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2HMT7jCbtV4btM1ZbFcPHu"> Supreme Court</a> removed three-time prime minister Nawaz Sharif from office in July 2017 and ordered a corruption probe into his assets that led to Sharif being given a seven-year jail term in December.

The court enraged hardline Islamists last year by overturning the conviction of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman condemned to death for blasphemy against Islam.

But it has also used so-called "suo motu" provisions in Pakistani law that allow the court to open cases on its own initiative to set its stamp on wide swaths of public life and denounce the failure of public institutions.

It has ordered inquiries into issues ranging from payments to farmers by powerful sugar mills to milk prices, city water supplies and corruption allegations against managers of the railways and national airline PIA.

However, the outgoing chief justice's activism did little to drain the backlog of more than 40,000 cases at the Supreme Court and a staggering 1.9 million combined cases pending in other courts.

"It's a highly problematic period at multiple levels," said legal scholar Osama Siddique, an Associate Fellow at the Institute for Development and Economic Alternatives in Lahore.

"Justice Saqib Nisar's entire emphasis was on other institutions and how they should improve their governance but he did not do anything to improve the governance and internal administration of the judiciary."

CAUTIONARY TALE

Nisar's high media profile has drawn parallels with Iftikhar Chaudhry, a chief justice who initially won plaudits for helping oust military dictator Pervez Musharraf in 2008, but was later criticised for overstepping his constitutional remit.

"Saqib Nisar's tenure was in many ways a cautionary tale in unfettered judicial overreach," said Ijaz. "It was unprecedented in the extent of its activism and disregard of formal legal procedures."

Nisar himself has said his suo motu cases and frequent public appearances to inspect development projects and facilities such as schools and hospitals were aimed at protecting the poor.

Allies of Sharif say his assertiveness served the interests of Pakistan's powerful military and hinted at a return to the past when they say judges cut politicians down to size at the behest of the generals.

The military, which has ruled Pakistan for nearly half its history since independence in 1947, denies involvement in domestic politics.

But Sharif's removal and the defeat of his PML-N party in elections last year led to the appointment as prime minister of Imran Khan, a cricketer-turned-politician seen by analysts and opposition politicians as close to the military.

The new Chief Justice, who will hold office for 11 months, has a tough task to reform Pakistan's sluggish judiciary.

Khosa wrote the judgment that ousted Sharif, opening with an epigraph he took from "The Godfather", Mario Puzo's bestselling novel on the mafia: "Behind every great fortune there is a crime."

But literary flourishes apart, Ijaz said his record suggested he would adopt a much lower profile than his interventionist predecessor.

"Khosa has in the past written strongly worded judgments (and) has never shown a desire for publicity... The hope is that he will continue on that theme and work towards reform, starting with the judiciary itself."

Pakistan swears in a new chief justice on Friday, opening the next chapter for the Supreme Court which has made a name for an expansive agenda that has ranged from ousting a prime minister to pressing authorities to improve the public water supply.

Pakistan swears in a new chief justice on Friday, opening the next chapter for the Supreme Court which has made a name for an expansive agenda that has ranged from ousting a prime minister to pressing authorities to improve the public water supply. Outgoing Chief Justice Saqib Nisar cultivated a high profile, launching multiple inquiries aimed at reforming public institutions and going after political leaders, attracting both praises for cracking down on abuse and criticism that he was exceeding the court's role. His successor, Supreme Court judge Asif Saeed Khosa, has a taste for literary quotation but is otherwise considered a more classical judge, preferring to stay out of the limelight. "I think Justice Khosa's tenure will be substantially different," said Saroop Ijaz, a lawyer for Human Rights Watch, who has been critical of Nisar's activist court. In one of its best-known judgments, the Supreme Court removed three-time prime minister Nawaz Sharif from office in July 2017 and ordered a corruption probe into his assets that led to Sharif being given a seven-year jail term in December. The court enraged hardline Islamists last year by overturning the conviction of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman condemned to death for blasphemy against Islam. But it has also used so-called "suo motu" provisions in Pakistani law that allow the court to open cases on its own initiative to set its stamp on wide swaths of public life and denounce the failure of public institutions. It has ordered inquiries into issues ranging from payments to farmers by powerful sugar mills to milk prices, city water supplies and corruption allegations against managers of the railways and national airline PIA. However, the outgoing chief justice's activism did little to drain the backlog of more than 40,000 cases at the Supreme Court and a staggering 1.9 million combined cases pending in other courts. "It's a highly problematic period at multiple levels," said legal scholar Osama Siddique, an Associate Fellow at the Institute for Development and Economic Alternatives in Lahore. "Justice Saqib Nisar's entire emphasis was on other institutions and how they should improve their governance but he did not do anything to improve the governance and internal administration of the judiciary." CAUTIONARY TALE Nisar's high media profile has drawn parallels with Iftikhar Chaudhry, a chief justice who initially won plaudits for helping oust military dictator Pervez Musharraf in 2008, but was later criticised for overstepping his constitutional remit. "Saqib Nisar's tenure was in many ways a cautionary tale in unfettered judicial overreach," said Ijaz. "It was unprecedented in the extent of its activism and disregard of formal legal procedures." Nisar himself has said his suo motu cases and frequent public appearances to inspect development projects and facilities such as schools and hospitals were aimed at protecting the poor. Allies of Sharif say his assertiveness served the interests of Pakistan's powerful military and hinted at a return to the past when they say judges cut politicians down to size at the behest of the generals. The military, which has ruled Pakistan for nearly half its history since independence in 1947, denies involvement in domestic politics. But Sharif's removal and the defeat of his PML-N party in elections last year led to the appointment as prime minister of Imran Khan, a cricketer-turned-politician seen by analysts and opposition politicians as close to the military. The new Chief Justice, who will hold office for 11 months, has a tough task to reform Pakistan's sluggish judiciary. Khosa wrote the judgment that ousted Sharif, opening with an epigraph he took from "The Godfather", Mario Puzo's bestselling novel on the mafia: "Behind every great fortune there is a crime." But literary flourishes apart, Ijaz said his record suggested he would adopt a much lower profile than his interventionist predecessor. "Khosa has in the past written strongly worded judgments (and) has never shown a desire for publicity... The hope is that he will continue on that theme and work towards reform, starting with the judiciary itself."

Pakistan new chief justice Saeed Khosa opens new era for powerful court

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-chief-justice-stays-execution-of-mentally-ill-policeman-190014&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjagK7d5PTfAhWRUd4KHSgfCZsQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw25DNV_s5PLSNLJnFi6TKUa">Chief Justice of Pakistan </a>Saqib Nisar, who tried to cultivate the image of being the "people's judge" and known for his judicial activism, retired on Thursday.

The outgoing chief justice passed several landmark judgments during his tenure as top judge including one which <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharif-denied-assistant-told-to-maintain-jail-room-himself-188102&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwimv_-X5PTfAhURhbwKHdGbDMsQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2rlYPawu-ZcmSAzbxVWmBP">disqualified prime minister Nawaz Sharif </a>in 2017 in a corruption case and the verdict in the blasphemy case against Christian woman Asia Bibi.

Justice Nisar was sworn in as the top judge on December 31, 2016. Justice Asif Saeed Khosa will take over the reins of the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-supreme-court-relaxes-licence-conditions-for-dance-bars-190940&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiS3YW25PTfAhUNF4gKHVFJDz8QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0e5KaRiZErKH6SLktj5Peb">Supreme Court</a> of Pakistan on Friday when he will be administered the oath by President Arif Alvi.

Justice Nisar has been a judge of the apex court since February 18, 2010. Before that, he was a judge of the Lahore High Court (LHC).

A full court reference in honour of the retiring Chief Justice Nisar was held in the Supreme Court. I was attended by all Supreme Court judges ? with the exception of Justice Mansoor Ali Shah ? as well as Attorney General of Pakistan (AGP) Anwar Mansoor, retired senior judges as well as senior journalists, among others.

Addressing the gathering, Justice Nisar said the top court has passed many landmark verdicts.

He said he tried to solve the issues plaguing sectors of health and education, both of which are rights granted to citizens by the Constitution.

"The job of judges is extremely difficult. Corruption within the judiciary is the murder of justice. I worked within the code of conduct for judges and it is my honour to have served the nation," he said.

Addressing the full court reference, chief justice-designate Khosa said Chief Justice Nisar faced many constitutional, societal and political challenges during his tenure and headed the judiciary in "very difficult circumstances".

Outlining his plan for his upcoming tenure as a top judge, Justice Khosa said that he will ensure the quick dispensation of justice.

Referring to Justice Nisar's efforts to raise donations to build the Diamer-Bhasha dams, Justice Khosa said that he too he wanted to build a dam. "I will build a dam against fake cases, against pending cases," he said.

"Currently there are 1.9 million cases pending in courts. Three thousand judges cannot dispense of so many cases," Justice Khosa noted.

He said the power to take Suo Motu notices will be used sparingly.

Speaking on the role of other courts, he said: "The trial of a civilian in a military court is considered wrong across the world. It is said that military courts take less time to issue verdicts. Civilian courts should try to resolve cases in a short period of time. <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-special-director-asthana-moves-delhi-hc-seeking-correction-in-recent-judgement-190801&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiXv_P55PTfAhWa7WEKHTSPDnsQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw14vY_na-Lby8ewG8eJzQds">High court</a>s should exercise powers within their jurisdiction."

He said the army and intelligence agencies should not interfere in civilian matters.

Among Chief Justice Nisar's retirement plans are to open a "free legal clinic".

"I will offer free legal assistance to the oppressed, poor and helpless people at my free legal clinic," he said earlier in the day, after adjourning a hearing of his last case.

Justice Nisar will be remembered for populism and stretching the concept of judicial activism to its last limits. He took at least 43 suo motu actions on issues ranging from water shortages, health issues, exorbitant school fee, and encroachments.

He even organised seminars on how to control population which he termed as dangerous for the country.

He used media efficiently and his aides would send tickers and messages to journalists on the pattern of political leaders.

Justice Nisar took a keen interest in disputes of popular nature. For example, he led a campaign to build dams to store water and set up special accounts to collect donations.

His drive against encroachment was applauded as thousands of acres of land illegally grabbed by land mafia was vacated due to his efforts.

He was shrewd enough to know the limits of his power in a country where the military was a powerful institution and tried to avoid doing things which might have annoyed the army.

Chief Justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar, who tried to cultivate the image of being the "people's judge" and known for his judicial activism, retired on Thursday. The outgoing chief justice passed several landmark judgments during his tenure as top judge including one which disqualified prime minister Nawaz Sharif in 2017 in a corruption case and the verdict in the blasphemy case against Christian woman Asia Bibi.

Chief Justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar, who tried to cultivate the image of being the "people's judge" and known for his judicial activism, retired on Thursday. The outgoing chief justice passed several landmark judgments during his tenure as top judge including one which disqualified prime minister Nawaz Sharif in 2017 in a corruption case and the verdict in the blasphemy case against Christian woman Asia Bibi. Justice Nisar was sworn in as the top judge on December 31, 2016. Justice Asif Saeed Khosa will take over the reins of the Supreme Court of Pakistan on Friday when he will be administered the oath by President Arif Alvi. Justice Nisar has been a judge of the apex court since February 18, 2010. Before that, he was a judge of the Lahore High Court (LHC). A full court reference in honour of the retiring Chief Justice Nisar was held in the Supreme Court. I was attended by all Supreme Court judges ? with the exception of Justice Mansoor Ali Shah ? as well as Attorney General of Pakistan (AGP) Anwar Mansoor, retired senior judges as well as senior journalists, among others. Addressing the gathering, Justice Nisar said the top court has passed many landmark verdicts. He said he tried to solve the issues plaguing sectors of health and education, both of which are rights granted to citizens by the Constitution. "The job of judges is extremely difficult. Corruption within the judiciary is the murder of justice. I worked within the code of conduct for judges and it is my honour to have served the nation," he said. Addressing the full court reference, chief justice-designate Khosa said Chief Justice Nisar faced many constitutional, societal and political challenges during his tenure and headed the judiciary in "very difficult circumstances". Outlining his plan for his upcoming tenure as a top judge, Justice Khosa said that he will ensure the quick dispensation of justice. Referring to Justice Nisar's efforts to raise donations to build the Diamer-Bhasha dams, Justice Khosa said that he too he wanted to build a dam. "I will build a dam against fake cases, against pending cases," he said. "Currently there are 1.9 million cases pending in courts. Three thousand judges cannot dispense of so many cases," Justice Khosa noted. He said the power to take Suo Motu notices will be used sparingly. Speaking on the role of other courts, he said: "The trial of a civilian in a military court is considered wrong across the world. It is said that military courts take less time to issue verdicts. Civilian courts should try to resolve cases in a short period of time. High courts should exercise powers within their jurisdiction." He said the army and intelligence agencies should not interfere in civilian matters. Among Chief Justice Nisar's retirement plans are to open a "free legal clinic". "I will offer free legal assistance to the oppressed, poor and helpless people at my free legal clinic," he said earlier in the day, after adjourning a hearing of his last case. Justice Nisar will be remembered for populism and stretching the concept of judicial activism to its last limits. He took at least 43 suo motu actions on issues ranging from water shortages, health issues, exorbitant school fee, and encroachments. He even organised seminars on how to control population which he termed as dangerous for the country. He used media efficiently and his aides would send tickers and messages to journalists on the pattern of political leaders. Justice Nisar took a keen interest in disputes of popular nature. For example, he led a campaign to build dams to store water and set up special accounts to collect donations. His drive against encroachment was applauded as thousands of acres of land illegally grabbed by land mafia was vacated due to his efforts. He was shrewd enough to know the limits of his power in a country where the military was a powerful institution and tried to avoid doing things which might have annoyed the army.

Pakistan's Chief Justice Nisar, known for judicial activism retires

Pakistan's Chief Justice Saqib Nisar has suspended the execution of a mentally ill former policeman, who was scheduled to be hanged on Monday, media reports said.

Chief Justice Nisar suspended the execution of Khizar Hayat late Saturday night following appeals from the prisoner's mother and human rights advocates calling for the suspension of his capital punishment.

The suspension came a day after a district and sessions judge scheduled Hayat's execution on January 15 at the Lahore's Kot Lakhpat Jail, the Express Tribune reported.

Hayat was sentenced to death in 2003 over the shooting of a fellow officer. He has spent nearly 15 years on death row. Hayat was first diagnosed as a schizophrenic in 2008 by jail medical authorities, Dawn reported.

Justice Nisar has also fixed the case for hearing on January 14, following calls from the rights organisations to review Hayat's case in the court.

"Taking notice of the issue, the chief justice suspended the sentence of the prisoner till further orders and fixed the matter for hearing on Jan 14," the paper said, quoting a statement from the Supreme Court.

In 2010, the jail medical officer recommended that Hayat needed specialised treatment and should be shifted to the psychiatric facility. However, this was never done, the report said.

In a letter, Hayat's mother requested the chief justice to visit the Kot Lakhpat jail ward for mentally ill prisoners and investigate what medicines were being given to her son.

She urged that Hayat's medical records be investigated to determine why his treatment was not being done properly and why his condition was worsening day by day.

Meanwhile, a two-member bench comprising Justice Mansoor Ahmad Malik and Justice Sardar Tariq Masood will hear an appeal for the suspension of death sentence of Hayat, the report said.

Pakistan's Chief Justice Saqib Nisar has suspended the execution of a mentally ill former policeman, who was scheduled to be hanged on Monday, media reports said.

Pakistan's Chief Justice Saqib Nisar has suspended the execution of a mentally ill former policeman, who was scheduled to be hanged on Monday, media reports said. Chief Justice Nisar suspended the execution of Khizar Hayat late Saturday night following appeals from the prisoner's mother and human rights advocates calling for the suspension of his capital punishment. The suspension came a day after a district and sessions judge scheduled Hayat's execution on January 15 at the Lahore's Kot Lakhpat Jail, the Express Tribune reported. Hayat was sentenced to death in 2003 over the shooting of a fellow officer. He has spent nearly 15 years on death row. Hayat was first diagnosed as a schizophrenic in 2008 by jail medical authorities, Dawn reported. Justice Nisar has also fixed the case for hearing on January 14, following calls from the rights organisations to review Hayat's case in the court. "Taking notice of the issue, the chief justice suspended the sentence of the prisoner till further orders and fixed the matter for hearing on Jan 14," the paper said, quoting a statement from the Supreme Court. In 2010, the jail medical officer recommended that Hayat needed specialised treatment and should be shifted to the psychiatric facility. However, this was never done, the report said. In a letter, Hayat's mother requested the chief justice to visit the Kot Lakhpat jail ward for mentally ill prisoners and investigate what medicines were being given to her son. She urged that Hayat's medical records be investigated to determine why his treatment was not being done properly and why his condition was worsening day by day. Meanwhile, a two-member bench comprising Justice Mansoor Ahmad Malik and Justice Sardar Tariq Masood will hear an appeal for the suspension of death sentence of Hayat, the report said.

Pakistan chief justice stays execution of mentally ill policeman

In a landmark decision, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-supreme-court-reserves-verdict-in-case-concerning-constitutional-status-of-gilgit-baltistan-in-pok-189091">Pakistan's Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;on Saturday imposed a levy of Re 1 for every litre of surface water extracted by companies selling mineral water and beverages, according to a media report.

The judgement was issued on a suo moto case pertaining to selling by the companies of water extracted from underground sources without any charge as well as the quality and fitness of the same for human consumption, Dawn newspaper reported.

The revenue so collected will be used for the construction of the Diamer-Bhasha and Mohmand dams.

Authored by Chief Justice Saqib Nisar, the judgement also required the provincial governments as well as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-police-arrest-5-baloch-separatists-for-chinese-consulate-attack-in-karachi-189676">the Islamabad Capital Territory administration</a> to set up separate and distinct accounts to receive the amounts collected under the water charges, the report said.

The amounts will then be deposited in the dams fund already created by the apex court.

The apex court made it clear that the funds so collected would not be diverted in any circumstances to any other purpose other than construction of dams and water-related activities.

However, once the dams are constructed, the provincial governments, subject to the order of the apex court, will be at liberty to utilise the funds collected in the accounts, the judgement said.

The apex court also constituted a special committee, headed by Prof Dr Mohammad Ahsan Siddiqui and comprising representatives of the provincial chief secretaries, director generals of the federal and provincial environmental protection agencies (EPAs) and others, to devise a mechanism for calculation, collection and monitoring of the recovery of water charges from all major industries consuming surface or groundwater.

The industries include the energy sector, pulp and paper, cement, sugar, ethanol refineries, textiles, garments, tanneries, petroleum refineries, petrochemical industries, and fertilisers.

A similar levy has already been imposed on the cement industry.

The committee after consultations will suggest imposing water tariff on these industries, the order said.

The apex court directed the federal and provincial governments to ensure installation of a foolproof and state-of-the-art metering mechanism at every extraction unit within a period of 30 days.

Close-circuit cameras will also be installed at the respective premises of the companies involved in the extraction of groundwater or utilisation of surface water for their business. The extraction will be monitored closely by the respective EPA on a daily basis, the verdict said.

In order to counter environmental impact, the Supreme Court ordered the mineral water and beverage companies to start tree plantation programmes to fulfil their corporate social responsibility.

"We expect each company to plant/arrange the plantation of 10,000 trees per annum," the court said, adding that a comprehensive programme would also be put in place to gradually phase out plastic bottles.

In the meantime, it said, it would be ensured that the plastic used for making bottles was certified by competent laboratories as being fit for human consumption.

The bottled water companies are also required to provide a chart highlighting milestones for meeting all the objectives spelt out in the order and will furnish monthly compliance/progress reports with the implementation bench being constituted under the judgement for its perusal and appropriate orders.

"The respective food authorities and the special committee also enjoy the authority to conduct surprise inspections at any time of the factory premises and water bottling/beverage facilities to ensure strict and faithful compliance of this order," the Supreme Court said.

The implementation bench will take up the matter on January 31.

The revenue so collected will be used for the construction of the Diamer-Bhasha and Mohmand dams.

In a landmark decision, Pakistan's Supreme Court on Saturday imposed a levy of Re 1 for every litre of surface water extracted by companies selling mineral water and beverages, according to a media report. The judgement was issued on a suo moto case pertaining to selling by the companies of water extracted from underground sources without any charge as well as the quality and fitness of the same for human consumption, Dawn newspaper reported. The revenue so collected will be used for the construction of the Diamer-Bhasha and Mohmand dams. Authored by Chief Justice Saqib Nisar, the judgement also required the provincial governments as well as the Islamabad Capital Territory administration to set up separate and distinct accounts to receive the amounts collected under the water charges, the report said. The amounts will then be deposited in the dams fund already created by the apex court. The apex court made it clear that the funds so collected would not be diverted in any circumstances to any other purpose other than construction of dams and water-related activities. However, once the dams are constructed, the provincial governments, subject to the order of the apex court, will be at liberty to utilise the funds collected in the accounts, the judgement said. The apex court also constituted a special committee, headed by Prof Dr Mohammad Ahsan Siddiqui and comprising representatives of the provincial chief secretaries, director generals of the federal and provincial environmental protection agencies (EPAs) and others, to devise a mechanism for calculation, collection and monitoring of the recovery of water charges from all major industries consuming surface or groundwater. The industries include the energy sector, pulp and paper, cement, sugar, ethanol refineries, textiles, garments, tanneries, petroleum refineries, petrochemical industries, and fertilisers. A similar levy has already been imposed on the cement industry. The committee after consultations will suggest imposing water tariff on these industries, the order said. The apex court directed the federal and provincial governments to ensure installation of a foolproof and state-of-the-art metering mechanism at every extraction unit within a period of 30 days. Close-circuit cameras will also be installed at the respective premises of the companies involved in the extraction of groundwater or utilisation of surface water for their business. The extraction will be monitored closely by the respective EPA on a daily basis, the verdict said. In order to counter environmental impact, the Supreme Court ordered the mineral water and beverage companies to start tree plantation programmes to fulfil their corporate social responsibility. "We expect each company to plant/arrange the plantation of 10,000 trees per annum," the court said, adding that a comprehensive programme would also be put in place to gradually phase out plastic bottles. In the meantime, it said, it would be ensured that the plastic used for making bottles was certified by competent laboratories as being fit for human consumption. The bottled water companies are also required to provide a chart highlighting milestones for meeting all the objectives spelt out in the order and will furnish monthly compliance/progress reports with the implementation bench being constituted under the judgement for its perusal and appropriate orders. "The respective food authorities and the special committee also enjoy the authority to conduct surprise inspections at any time of the factory premises and water bottling/beverage facilities to ensure strict and faithful compliance of this order," the Supreme Court said. The implementation bench will take up the matter on January 31.

Pakistan Supreme Court imposes Re 1 per litre charge on mineral water, beverage firms

Pakistan's Supreme Court Monday warned to shut down mineral water companies if the quality of water does not improve as an official report disclosed that some of the bottling and beverages plants lacked qualified and trained staff for water testing.

A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Saqib Nisar and comprising Justices Ijazul Ahsan and Faisal Arbab was dismayed at the report submitted by the water commission in the mineral water suo motu case, the Express Tribune reported.

Citing the report, the paper said some companies lacked qualified and trained staff for water testing while some of the bottling and beverages plants did not have relevant environmental approval.

The report found two companies to be using water from Indus river and canals while the concentration of minerals mentioned on the water bottle was inaccurate.

"After reviewing the commission's report, I want to shut down the mineral water companies," the chief justice said. "The companies who have been stealing water will have to pay compensation."

Chief Justice Nisar said if the mineral water companies did not improve their system, the apex court will have no choice but to shut them down.

"Nobody will die of thirst if mineral water companies are shut," he said.

"The commission report states that the companies lack water testing system," Justice Ahsan noted.

The chief justice noted that if the mineral water companies were taxed Re1 per litre, the compensation amount will near Rs 700 billion.&nbsp;

"We can build the dams with the money," he observed.

Pakistan's Supreme Court Monday warned to shut down mineral water companies if the quality of water does not improve as an official report disclosed that some of the bottling and beverages plants lacked qualified and trained staff for water testing.

Pakistan's Supreme Court Monday warned to shut down mineral water companies if the quality of water does not improve as an official report disclosed that some of the bottling and beverages plants lacked qualified and trained staff for water testing. A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Saqib Nisar and comprising Justices Ijazul Ahsan and Faisal Arbab was dismayed at the report submitted by the water commission in the mineral water suo motu case, the Express Tribune reported. Citing the report, the paper said some companies lacked qualified and trained staff for water testing while some of the bottling and beverages plants did not have relevant environmental approval. The report found two companies to be using water from Indus river and canals while the concentration of minerals mentioned on the water bottle was inaccurate. "After reviewing the commission's report, I want to shut down the mineral water companies," the chief justice said. "The companies who have been stealing water will have to pay compensation." Chief Justice Nisar said if the mineral water companies did not improve their system, the apex court will have no choice but to shut them down. "Nobody will die of thirst if mineral water companies are shut," he said. "The commission report states that the companies lack water testing system," Justice Ahsan noted. The chief justice noted that if the mineral water companies were taxed Re1 per litre, the compensation amount will near Rs 700 billion. "We can build the dams with the money," he observed.

Pakistan Supreme Court warns to shut down mineral water companies

Pakistan Supreme Court Chief Justice Saqib Nisar Friday asked authorities to first initiate action against Prime Minister Imran Khan's sprawling Bani Gala residence as he heard a case on illegal constructions in the federal capital's suburb, according to a media report.

Justice Nisar said that the Capital Development Authority (CDA) should first act against Khan's Bani Gala residence, days after he asked the cricketer-turned-politician to first pay fine to reguralise his property.

Khan had sought the court's attention towards the large-scale encroachment, unchecked and unplanned construction in Bani Gala, massive denuding due to massive tree felling and pollution of the Rawal Lake due to sewage.

During the hearing, the full bench headed by Justice Nisar said Prime Minister Khan should be the first person to take steps towards regularisation of his property in order for others to follow his example, the Express Tribune reported.

The premier's counsel, Babar Awan, replied they will cooperate with the CDA to resolve this issue.

Justice Nisar asked how they were planning to cooperate and what documents are they planning to take to the development authority.

A report by Survey of Pakistan regarding encroachment in Bani Gala was submitted during the hearing on Monday, to which Justice Nisar remarked that whoever illegally constructed buildings in the area will be subject to a fine.

The apex court on October 1 observed that it is the job of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf-led (PTI) government of Khan to regularise all properties located in the Bani Gala area, including his private residence. 
Khan's colonial-style house in Bani Gala reportedly has five bedrooms.&nbsp;

Recalling that it was Khan himself who had approached the apex court with an application regarding illegal constructions in Bani Gala, Chief Justice Nisar said the prime minister would have to initiate the process of regularisation of the area by paying the required fine.

"Imran Khan should submit fees towards regularisation before anyone else," directed Justice Nisar said on Monday.

Pakistan Supreme Court Chief Justice Saqib Nisar Friday asked authorities to first initiate action against Prime Minister Imran Khan's sprawling Bani Gala residence as he heard a case on illegal constructions in the federal capital's suburb, according to a media report.

Pakistan Supreme Court Chief Justice Saqib Nisar Friday asked authorities to first initiate action against Prime Minister Imran Khan's sprawling Bani Gala residence as he heard a case on illegal constructions in the federal capital's suburb, according to a media report. Justice Nisar said that the Capital Development Authority (CDA) should first act against Khan's Bani Gala residence, days after he asked the cricketer-turned-politician to first pay fine to reguralise his property. Khan had sought the court's attention towards the large-scale encroachment, unchecked and unplanned construction in Bani Gala, massive denuding due to massive tree felling and pollution of the Rawal Lake due to sewage. During the hearing, the full bench headed by Justice Nisar said Prime Minister Khan should be the first person to take steps towards regularisation of his property in order for others to follow his example, the Express Tribune reported. The premier's counsel, Babar Awan, replied they will cooperate with the CDA to resolve this issue. Justice Nisar asked how they were planning to cooperate and what documents are they planning to take to the development authority. A report by Survey of Pakistan regarding encroachment in Bani Gala was submitted during the hearing on Monday, to which Justice Nisar remarked that whoever illegally constructed buildings in the area will be subject to a fine. The apex court on October 1 observed that it is the job of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf-led (PTI) government of Khan to regularise all properties located in the Bani Gala area, including his private residence. Khan's colonial-style house in Bani Gala reportedly has five bedrooms. Recalling that it was Khan himself who had approached the apex court with an application regarding illegal constructions in Bani Gala, Chief Justice Nisar said the prime minister would have to initiate the process of regularisation of the area by paying the required fine. "Imran Khan should submit fees towards regularisation before anyone else," directed Justice Nisar said on Monday.

First take action against PM Imran Khan's private residence in Bani Gala: Pak SC

Irked by former dictator Pervez Musharraf's failure to come back to Pakistan and face ongoing cases against him, Chief Justice Saqib Nisar on Tuesday warned that if the "courageous commando" does not appear soon, he may be forced to return in a disgraceful manner.

Chief Justice Nisar made the remarks when Musharraf's lawyer told the three-judge bench that his client "respects the court" but was unable to return due to his medical condition and reservations over the provision of security, Dawn newspaper reported.

Musharraf, 75, who has been living in Dubai since 2016, is facing the high-profile treason case for suspending the Constitution in 2007. The former military ruler left for Dubai in March 2016 for medical treatment and has not returned since.

His lawyer told the court that there were no charges against the former president in the Lal Masjid operation case and demanded to know what the case against his client was, the paper reported.

He may not face any charges in the Lal Masjid case, but he is facing a treason case for which he must appear in court, replied Chief Justice Nisar.

If Musharraf returns voluntarily, he may be able to do so respectably otherwise he may be compelled to return under circumstances which are not "graceful", the top judge warned.

"The commando who used to describe himself as a 'courageous commando' should today display that courage," the top judge was quoted as saying by the paper.

"Why is the courageous commando not returning?" he asked.

"I told you before that if he returns, he will be provided security," the top judge said. He also advised that the former dictator should get medical treatment in Pakistan, the paper said.

"I am giving you this assurance. It is the assurance of the highest court in the country," Chief Justice Nisar said and added that: "As long as (Musharraf) is alive, it is his duty to appear before the court."

He further said that it was not acceptable for a citizen to leave the country and not return while a case against them is underway in courts.

The chief justice also promised that the former military ruler would not be arrested upon his return, and that whatever the outcome of the cases, it would be strictly in line with the law.

The court ordered Musharraf's lawyer to submit his medical report within a week and adjourned the hearing until October 11.

Last week, Muhammad Amjad, a leader of the All Pakistan Muslim League (APML) - a political party floated by Musharraf in 2010 -- had said that the former president was "growing weaker rapidly" due to an unspecified illness and, therefore, could not return to Pakistan.

The former Army chief has been declared an absconder due to his persistent failure to appear before a special trial court set up to try him in the case.

Last month, Pakistan's Supreme Court assured Musharraf that high-level security will be provided to him if he returns to the country to face the trial in the treason case.

The former president was indicted in March 2014 on treason charges for suspending the Constitution and imposing emergency which led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses and sacking of over 100 judges.

A conviction for high-profile treason carries the death penalty or life imprisonment.

Musharraf, who ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008, has been declared a fugitive in the Benazir Bhutto murder case and Red Mosque cleric killing case.

Irked by former dictator Pervez Musharraf's failure to come back to Pakistan and face ongoing cases against him, Chief Justice Saqib Nisar on Tuesday warned that if the "courageous commando" does not appear soon, he may be forced to return in a disgraceful manner.

Irked by former dictator Pervez Musharraf's failure to come back to Pakistan and face ongoing cases against him, Chief Justice Saqib Nisar on Tuesday warned that if the "courageous commando" does not appear soon, he may be forced to return in a disgraceful manner. Chief Justice Nisar made the remarks when Musharraf's lawyer told the three-judge bench that his client "respects the court" but was unable to return due to his medical condition and reservations over the provision of security, Dawn newspaper reported. Musharraf, 75, who has been living in Dubai since 2016, is facing the high-profile treason case for suspending the Constitution in 2007. The former military ruler left for Dubai in March 2016 for medical treatment and has not returned since. His lawyer told the court that there were no charges against the former president in the Lal Masjid operation case and demanded to know what the case against his client was, the paper reported. He may not face any charges in the Lal Masjid case, but he is facing a treason case for which he must appear in court, replied Chief Justice Nisar. If Musharraf returns voluntarily, he may be able to do so respectably otherwise he may be compelled to return under circumstances which are not "graceful", the top judge warned. "The commando who used to describe himself as a 'courageous commando' should today display that courage," the top judge was quoted as saying by the paper. "Why is the courageous commando not returning?" he asked. "I told you before that if he returns, he will be provided security," the top judge said. He also advised that the former dictator should get medical treatment in Pakistan, the paper said. "I am giving you this assurance. It is the assurance of the highest court in the country," Chief Justice Nisar said and added that: "As long as (Musharraf) is alive, it is his duty to appear before the court." He further said that it was not acceptable for a citizen to leave the country and not return while a case against them is underway in courts. The chief justice also promised that the former military ruler would not be arrested upon his return, and that whatever the outcome of the cases, it would be strictly in line with the law. The court ordered Musharraf's lawyer to submit his medical report within a week and adjourned the hearing until October 11. Last week, Muhammad Amjad, a leader of the All Pakistan Muslim League (APML) - a political party floated by Musharraf in 2010 -- had said that the former president was "growing weaker rapidly" due to an unspecified illness and, therefore, could not return to Pakistan. The former Army chief has been declared an absconder due to his persistent failure to appear before a special trial court set up to try him in the case. Last month, Pakistan's Supreme Court assured Musharraf that high-level security will be provided to him if he returns to the country to face the trial in the treason case. The former president was indicted in March 2014 on treason charges for suspending the Constitution and imposing emergency which led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses and sacking of over 100 judges. A conviction for high-profile treason carries the death penalty or life imprisonment. Musharraf, who ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008, has been declared a fugitive in the Benazir Bhutto murder case and Red Mosque cleric killing case.

If Musharraf fails to appear soon, he may be forced to return in disgraceful manner, warns Pak CJ

Pakistan&rsquo;s Chief Justice&nbsp;Saqib Nisar has come under fire after he compared the length of a speech to that of a woman&rsquo;s skirt.

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&quot;Speech should be like a woman&#39;s skirt, it should not be too long that one loses the interest and neither too short that it doesn&#39;t cover the subject,&quot; this is the top judge of Pakistan, Saqib Nisar. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/footinmouth?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#footinmouth</a> <a href="https://t.co/SWzq2uHaQj">pic.twitter.com/SWzq2uHaQj</a>
&mdash; Naila Inayat (@nailainayat) <a href="https://twitter.com/nailainayat/status/954706770223607809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Nisar said that a &quot;speech should be like a woman&#39;s skirt, not too long that one loses interest and neither too short that it doesn&#39;t cover the subject.&quot;

Nisar was quoting Winston Churchill during an event in Karachi.

However, the video of Nisar making this analogy soon went viral and received&nbsp;criticism on social platforms.

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Why am I not surprised that this is a statement from our chief justiceSaqib Nisar,&ldquo;A good speech should be like a woman&rsquo;s skirt long enough to cover the subject and short enough to create interest.&rdquo; 
This is dehumanizing.When will we stop objectifying women?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TimesUp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TimesUp</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaqibNisar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaqibNisar</a>
&mdash; Bariyah Faisal (@BariyahFaisal) <a href="https://twitter.com/BariyahFaisal/status/955989179179159557?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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WDF strongly condemns the use of sexist language by Chief Justice Saqib Nisar in a recent event in Karachi. It&rsquo;s utterly shameful for a Chief Justice to be using such language and referring to women and their clothing in such a manner.
&mdash; Women Democratic Front (@WDF_Pk) <a href="https://twitter.com/WDF_Pk/status/954827148837126147?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Honourable <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChiefJustice?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChiefJustice</a> of Pakistan Miyan Saqib Nisar , sir we are so proud of you. ???????? <a href="https://t.co/eZF3498NwQ">pic.twitter.com/eZF3498NwQ</a>
&mdash; Syeda Bushra Aamir (@BushraAamir) <a href="https://twitter.com/BushraAamir/status/954650900932460544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Woman&#39;s rights activist in the country has shown outrage on the issue and highlighted the sexism woman face everywhere including the legal system.

A Karachi-based rights group, Woman Action Forum (WAF) has sent a letter to Nisar demanding an apology an said that the statement shows a deep-rooted sexism and double standards women are held.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A 'speech should be like a woman's skirt, not too long that one loses interest and neither too short that it doesn't cover the subject,' Saqib Nisar said

Pakistan’s Chief Justice Saqib Nisar has come under fire after he compared the length of a speech to that of a woman’s skirt. "Speech should be like a woman's skirt, it should not be too long that one loses the interest and neither too short that it doesn't cover the subject," this is the top judge of Pakistan, Saqib Nisar. #footinmouth pic.twitter.com/SWzq2uHaQj — Naila Inayat (@nailainayat) January 20, 2018 × Nisar said that a "speech should be like a woman's skirt, not too long that one loses interest and neither too short that it doesn't cover the subject." Nisar was quoting Winston Churchill during an event in Karachi. However, the video of Nisar making this analogy soon went viral and received criticism on social platforms. Why am I not surprised that this is a statement from our chief justiceSaqib Nisar,“A good speech should be like a woman’s skirt long enough to cover the subject and short enough to create interest.” This is dehumanizing.When will we stop objectifying women?#TimesUp #SaqibNisar — Bariyah Faisal (@BariyahFaisal) January 24, 2018 × WDF strongly condemns the use of sexist language by Chief Justice Saqib Nisar in a recent event in Karachi. It’s utterly shameful for a Chief Justice to be using such language and referring to women and their clothing in such a manner. — Women Democratic Front (@WDF_Pk) January 20, 2018 × Honourable #ChiefJustice of Pakistan Miyan Saqib Nisar , sir we are so proud of you. ???????? pic.twitter.com/eZF3498NwQ — Syeda Bushra Aamir (@BushraAamir) January 20, 2018 × Woman's rights activist in the country has shown outrage on the issue and highlighted the sexism woman face everywhere including the legal system. A Karachi-based rights group, Woman Action Forum (WAF) has sent a letter to Nisar demanding an apology an said that the statement shows a deep-rooted sexism and double standards women are held.

Uproar after Pakistan Chief Justice's 'skirt' remark

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