The Chief Justice of Pakistan, Justice Umar Ata Bandial, has written a formal response to the Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court, Justice Aamer Farooq, regarding the issue of judges’ transfer. According to the letter, the Judicial Commission’s meeting cannot be convened based on informal requests, and accepting such a request is impossible.
Justice Bandial emphasized that without a clear reason, a judge’s transfer would essentially be a form of punishment, and the Judicial Commission’s meeting cannot be convened for a specific purpose. He also stated that such actions could affect the balance of the judicial system. Moreover, he expressed concern that the representation of provinces in the Islamabad High Court could be abolished, while the return of judges from Sindh could be against the federal balance.
Justice Aamer Farooq, in response, emphasized the need for environmental protection and stated that climate change is a serious challenge that requires collective action. He also pointed out that the Islamabad High Court Act 2010 could be affected if five out of nine judges are transferred, which could not only affect the judicial system but also create institutional uncertainty.
Justice Bandial clarified that the regular procedure for taking action against judges is available under Article 209 of the Constitution, and only through this procedure can action be taken. He further stated that administrative transfers of judges would be contrary to the independence and autonomy of the judiciary and could damage the judicial reputation.
The Chief Justice of Pakistan also mentioned that the Judicial Commission’s meeting can be convened by the Secretary under the constitutional procedure, but a quorum of one-third of the members is necessary. In this case, a written request from one-third of the members was received on April 7, 2026.
In other news, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has launched a new website. A Somali pirate attack on an oil tanker has resulted in the kidnapping of the ship. The Islamabad administration has been requested by pharmaceutical companies and the Ministry of Health to allow cars to enter the city. According to the rescue officials, a woman tourist died in the incident, and five people were injured.
Pakistan has received bids for the supply of three liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Suhail Aftab said that Pakistan has received international recognition for its role in promoting peace and negotiations. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has praised Pakistan’s role in Iran-US negotiations.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has proposed amendments to anti-money laundering regulations. There is a possibility of an American delegation visiting Islamabad from Washington. PTI’s former Senator Aziz Chaudhry’s health has deteriorated in Kot Lakhpat Jail, Lahore. According to government sources, a significant discussion and dialogue between the Pakistani team and the US and Iran have led to the expectation of a second round of Islamabad peace talks.
In a separate incident, three suspects involved in street crime in Rawalpindi were killed in a police shootout. Sabiha Khan and Zohra have been appointed as jail wardens. Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif has contacted Pakistani leadership separately. The police have requested a 14-day physical remand of the accused.
