Entering Lahore Corps Commander House a ‘Security Breach’: SC Judge

Defence ministry’s lawyer clarifies no military personnel charged for May 9 events.

• Judge questions punishment for army personnel involved on May 9.
• Lawyer explains restraint was observed to prevent loss of life.
• Hearing adjourned until tomorrow.

ISLAMABAD: Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi of the Supreme Court remarked on Tuesday that people entering the Corps Commander House in Lahore on May 9, 2023, was indeed a “security breach.”
The comments were made as a constitutional bench, headed by Justice Amin-Ud-Din Khan, heard appeals against civilian trials in military courts.

Trials in Military Courts

On October 23, 2024, the Supreme Court had declared trials of civilians in military courts null and void. However, a December 2023 bench temporarily allowed military courts to pronounce verdicts for 85 civilians, 19 of whom later received pardons.

Lawyer’s Argument

Khawaja Haris, representing the Ministry of Defence, stated that the law permitting civilian trials in military courts has existed since 1967.
He clarified that no military personnel were charged in connection with the May 9 events and restraint was exercised to avoid casualties.

Additional Queries

The bench raised questions regarding the jurisdiction of military courts and the involvement of conspirators in the May 9 riots.
It was noted that some protesters were unaware of their actions and were not tried in military courts.

The hearing was adjourned until tomorrow (Wednesday).