SC releases detailed verdict of rejecting Punjab govt’s petition in May 9 cases

Supreme Court of Pakistan has released detailed verdicts of its order after rejecting Punjab government’s petition seeking shifting of May 9 attack cases. The 4-page decision was written by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi. 

According to the decision Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court has the constitutional authority to protect judicial officers from administrative interference. 

The SC said reference against anti-terrorism court judge dismissed due to lack of evidence. If comments are personal in nature, they will not affect future proceedings. Court rejects request to transfer cases due to lack of evidence. The Chief Justice High Court's remarks on conduct of state officials fall within administrative jurisdiction. The verdict said anti-terrorism court judge's allegation of bias not proven. Chief Justice was absolutely right not to take further action on transfer petition. 

The Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court considered it his constitutional duty to protect judicial officers, remarks, whether critical or complimentary, should not be considered final or binding on any forum in the future. Praise does not exempt an officer from accountability, the Supreme Court said. 

The order said criticism cannot affect the character of officers. The Punjab government had filed a reference against former ATC Judge Rawalpindi Ijaz Asif. The Lahore High Court had dismissed the reference and the request for transfer of cases. The Punjab government had challenged the decision of the Lahore High Court in the Supreme Court.