IHC judges move SJC over ‘Interference’ by spy agencies in judicial matters. Six judges of the Islamabad High Court have brought attention to what they allege as interference and intimidation by personnel affiliated with intelligence agencies in Pakistan.
The judges, namely Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani, Justice Tariq Mahmood Jahangiri, Justice Babar Sattar, Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir, and Justice Saman Raffat Imtiaz, have jointly penned a letter addressing these concerns.
‘Interference’ by spy agencies in judicial matters
Instances of Interference and Intimidation
The letter delineates several instances of interference purportedly carried out by operatives of intelligence agencies.
These incidents include the abduction of a relative of one of the judges by individuals claiming association with intelligence agencies, as well as unauthorized surveillance conducted on the residences of judges.
Emphasis on Judicial Convention
The senior judges have underscored the necessity of adhering to judicial convention to effectively address such matters and uphold the autonomy of the judiciary within the nation.
Protection of Judicial Independence
Central to their concerns is the imperative to safeguard the independence of the judiciary from external influences, particularly those stemming from intelligence agencies.
Highlighting a Case of Discord
The letter references a specific case wherein members of the bench were in disagreement, hinting at potential attempts to sway judicial decisions through external pressures.
Intimidation of District Court Judges
Additionally, the correspondence sheds light on the intimidation faced by judges at the district court level.
It cites instances of threats directed towards an Additional District and Sessions Judge, including the alarming act of throwing explosives near the judge’s residence.
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The communication from the Islamabad High Court judges serves as a poignant reminder of the critical need to maintain the integrity and independence of the judiciary in Pakistan.
It calls upon relevant authorities to investigate these allegations thoroughly and take necessary measures to ensure the unimpeded functioning of the judicial system.
