Supreme Court Takes Suo Motu Notice of IHC Judges’ Letter

The Supreme Court of Pakistan has taken suo motu notice of the allegations made by Islamabad High Court judges regarding interference by intelligence agencies in judicial matters, despite the government’s formation of a commission to investigate the issue. Led by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, a seven-member bench is set to convene on Wednesday to address the matter.

The explosive letter, which surfaced last week, has sparked a crisis, prompting calls for immediate action from various legal quarters. Over 300 lawyers from different bar associations across the country have urged the apex court to intervene under Article 184(3) of the Constitution.

In the letter addressed to the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC), six IHC judges raised concerns over alleged intelligence agency interference in judicial affairs and called for a judicial convention to address the matter.

Over 300 lawyers from different bar associations across the country have urged the apex court to intervene under Article 184(3) of the Constitution.

This development follows the Supreme Court’s recent verdict declaring the removal of former IHC Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui illegal. The court directed that Justice Siddiqui be considered as a retired judge, noting that the allegations against him were not substantiated.

In response to the letter, Chief Justice Isa chaired a full court meeting to discuss the issue and sought guidance from the SJC regarding judges’ responsibilities in reporting and responding to executive interference.

Despite the government’s decision to form an inquiry commission, the Supreme Court has taken suo motu notice of the matter, prompting former Chief Justice Tassaduq Hussain Jillani, appointed to head the commission, to recuse himself.