Senate urges SC to review decision, terming some sections of Army Act as unconstitutional

Islamabad: The Senate called upon the Supreme Court to reconsider its decision regarding declaration of some sections of the Army Act, including establishment of military courts, as unconstitutional.

To this respect, the House, with a majority vote, passed a resolution moved by Senator Dilawar Khan and others.

It said trail of those accused of violence against the armed forces under the Army Act is an appropriate and proportional response in line with the Pakistan's existing constitutional framework and statutory regime. It added that the trail of individuals accused of anti-state vandalism and violence under the Army Act serves as a deterrent against such acts.

 The resolution also extended firm stand with the families of martyrs, who have made significant sacrifices for the country, and have expressed feelings of insecurity and treachery due to this decision.

The House said military courts have played a significant role in addressing terrorism by ensuring that those responsible for terrorist acts are brought to justice. However, the judgment while abandoning the spirit of martyrdom, grants lenient option to terrorists, anti-state actors, foreign agents and spies to be tried in normal courts.

The resolution maintained the sentences given by military courts are not arbitrary and are conducted following due process and formalities.

It reaffirmed that 9th of May will be remembered as a dark day in the history of the country and condemns the anti-state acts committed against the armed forces, which the enemies of Pakistan cannot even dare to think of committing.

The culprits of 9th May, who blatantly attacked defence installations and  disgracefully dismantled memorials of martyrs, deserve no empathy or leniency. They should be tried in military courts and stringent punishments be given to make them an example for internal and external enemies to Pakistan by creating a deterrence and upholding the supremacy of State.