Islamabad High Court restricts intelligence agency access to courtrooms

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has taken a significant step by prohibiting officials from intelligence agencies from entering courtrooms. This decision came after a letter from six IHC judges, including Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kiyani, raised concerns about interference in court affairs by intelligence agencies.

The judges, in their letter to the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC), pointed out the absence of clear guidelines in the council's code of conduct for judges to address instances of interference that threaten judicial independence. They have called for a judicial convention to tackle the issue of intelligence agencies meddling in judicial functions and intimidating judges, which poses a threat to the independence of the judiciary.

This move by the IHC aims to safeguard the integrity and independence of the judiciary, ensuring that court proceedings are free from external influence. By restricting the entry of intelligence agency officials into courtrooms, the IHC is taking a firm stand to uphold the principles of judicial autonomy and impartiality.

The decision of the Islamabad High Court to bar intelligence agencies from courtrooms marks a crucial development in protecting judicial independence. By addressing concerns raised by judges and advocating for a judicial convention, the IHC is working towards ensuring a fair and unbiased judicial system. This step reinforces the importance of upholding the rule of law and preserving the autonomy of the judiciary in Pakistan.