Counsel representing Defence ministry argues Army Act not limited to armed forces


Islamabad: Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar of the Supreme Court of Pakistan on Tuesday said that the civilians would not face a military trial merely for standing near an army checkpoint but certainly would it if they committed an offence listed under the Army Act.
The judge passed the remarks during a constitutional bench’s hearing of a case on appeals against decisions allowing civilian trials in military courts.
It came in response to Justice Musarrat Hilali’s concern over the “extension of powers” to try civilians under the Army Act, while the question remains whether the civilians can be tried in military courts.
Khawaja Haris, representing the Ministry of Defence, argued that the apex court had previously ruled that civilians could be court-martialed under specific circumstances.
At this, Justice Mandokhail raised constitutional concerns, questioning whether an executive body like the Ministry of Defence could act as both accuser and judge. “The constitution clearly prohibits the executive from performing judicial functions,” he remarked

Flatiron Books says it will keep publishing book from ex-Meta employee
- 2 hours ago

Six March Madness stars to watch
- 34 minutes ago

Dollar surges as forex markets struggle amid IMF delays, economic pressures
- 12 hours ago
Virtual learning introduced at Balochistan universities amid growing security risks
- 9 hours ago
Gold prices hit historic highs amid global economic concerns
- 14 hours ago

Ruet-e-Hilal Committee to meet on March 30 for Shawwal moon sighting
- 10 hours ago
Somali militants attack presidential convoy, president escapes unhurt
- 8 hours ago

Sindh announces holiday for educational institutions on March 22
- 11 hours ago

Pakistan vows full force against terrorism in recent security meeting
- 11 hours ago

Source: Eagles add ex-Giants pass rusher Ojulari
- 34 minutes ago

Mustafa Amir murder case: Father and son clash in court during case hearing
- 13 hours ago
Army Chief stresses need for national unity in fight against terrorism
- 8 hours ago