Showing its dissatisfaction with its previous reply, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday once again asked the government to clearly inform the court whether there were plans to try former prime minister and PTI founder Imran Khan in a military court, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb, who heard the petition filed by the former prime minister, seeking the court order to halt his possible military trial, asked about the procedure followed while handing over an accused to the military.
The judge remarked that the statements made by politicians and an army officer had been made part of the case’s record. “If any army officer makes such statements, then it is really a serious issue,” he observed.
The additional attorney general (AAG), on the occasion, told the court that so far the Ministry of Defence had no information that the Pakistan Army planned to conduct the former prime minister’s trial. “On behalf of the ministry, I tell you that there is no such thing which is in the ministry’s knowledge.”
And if any such request was received, the additional attorney general went on to say, then action would be taken as per the law.
Justice Aurangzeb reminded that on the last hearing, he had not issued notices, but had sought a definite reply from the government on the issue. “If the government had clearly stated that yes the military trial of the PTI founder was on the cards, then certainly there could be further developments in the case. “Today we are living in an era in which there is a war of words,” the judge remarked.
“I can understand your anxiety,” he said, adding, “But you too should understand the limitations of the court.”
Presently, Justice Aurangzeb said, there was nothing for further progress in the case.
The AAG, on the occasion, sought time from the court for the reply.
The court then adjourned the case’s hearing until September 23.
Reporter: Ihtesham Kiani