Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced that 19 individuals convicted in the May 9, 2023, riots have received mercy on humanitarian grounds. The state granted these remissions to emphasize fairness and compassion while upholding the rule of law.
The May 9 riots followed the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and caused widespread destruction. Protesters damaged public buildings and military installations, including ISI offices and the Punjab Regimental Centre. Military courts sentenced 85 civilians involved in the riots. Among them, 19 individuals, previously sentenced to two years of rigorous imprisonment, have now received relief after their appeals.
The ISPR clarified that the convicts will be released once the procedural formalities are complete. Officials processed 67 appeals, approving 19 based on humanitarian considerations. They continue to review the remaining cases.
The decision comes amid criticism of military trials for civilians. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar rejected these trials as unconstitutional. He reiterated that civilian courts should handle such cases, reflecting his party’s firm stance against military jurisdiction over civilian offenses.
Observers view the remission as a sign of the government’s willingness to combine justice with mercy. This step also highlights the importance of reconciliation during a politically charged period. While it does not erase the losses caused by the riots, the remission shows the state’s effort to foster fairness.
The May 9 riots resulted in significant damage, with losses totaling over Rs2.5 billion. The events led to public and legal debates over how to address civilian involvement in attacks on sensitive locations. With these remissions, the government signals its intention to uphold both the law and principles of humanity.
This decision marks a step toward healing and encourages discussions about the balance between justice and compassion.
