Supreme Court Forms Larger Bench to Address Judicial Interference Concerns

In response to a letter from six Islamabad High Court judges expressing concerns about interference by intelligence agencies in judicial proceedings, the Supreme Court has taken action. A three-judge committee formed under the Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Act 2023 has established a six-member larger bench to oversee the case. The new bench, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, is set to hear the case on April 30.

Initially, a seven-member larger bench had started hearing the matter, but one judge recused himself, leaving a six-member bench to continue. The decision on the bench's composition was made in Karachi, as per the court roster issued by the committee. During the proceedings, Chief Justice Isa hinted at the possibility of convening a full court, while Justice Minallah also mentioned it in his separate note.

Lawyers supporting the IHC judges have expressed disappointment over the absence of a full court and have urged the committee to reconsider. The outcome of this case, along with others, will be closely watched, especially in the context of proposed judicial reforms and concerns about political interference in legal proceedings.

The formation of the larger bench by the Supreme Court to address allegations of interference by security agencies in judicial matters marks a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings. With Chief Justice Isa leading the bench, the case is expected to be thoroughly examined, reflecting the judiciary's commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring transparency in the legal system.