The Supreme Court (SC) recently questioned the handling of the May 9, 2023, security breach at the Corps Commander House in Lahore. Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi called the intrusion a serious security breach. He asked, “How did people reach the Corps Commander House? Wasn’t it a breach of security?”
The court heard intra-court appeals challenging the trial of civilians in military courts. Justice Rizvi inquired if any military officer faced accountability for the events. The Defence Ministry’s lawyer, Khawaja Haris, defended military trials, stating the law had been in place since 1967.
Justice Musarrat Hilali raised concerns about the military’s jurisdiction over civilian disputes. The lawyer explained that military courts could try civilians who interfere with military affairs.
The court discussed military trials’ implications, referencing the FB Ali case from the civilian martial law era. Justice Rizvi questioned why the authorities had not tried any military officer for the breach. The Defence Ministry’s lawyer explained that no officer was involved and that authorities prosecuted the protesters for property damage.
The court also reviewed military restraint during the breach. Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhel asked about stolen military equipment and its trial. The Defence Ministry’s lawyer explained that the Army Act governs such cases for military personnel.
Justice Musarrat Hilali pointed out that some protesters might not have known about the situation. The Defence Ministry’s lawyer clarified that only those who actively participated in unlawful activities were tried.
The SC stressed the need to clarify which cases were transferred to military courts and why. Justice Aminuddin Khan urged the Defence Ministry’s lawyer to conclude his arguments by Tuesday. The court will resume hearings and address the unresolved questions.
