Supreme Court of Pakistan consolidates pleas on intelligence agency interference

The Supreme Court of Pakistan has taken a significant step by clubbing all pleas related to allegations of interference by intelligence agencies in the judicial domain. This decision comes after a letter from IHC judges raised concerns about such interference, prompting a response from the apex court. The pleas, filed by various entities including Islamabad, Lahore, and Balochistan High Court Bars, as well as individuals like Aitzaz Ahsan, Shehbaz Khosa, and Mian Dawood, have been consolidated for a comprehensive hearing.

Notices have been served to the attorney general of Pakistan and all respondents for the upcoming hearing scheduled for April 30. A six-member larger bench, led by CJP Qazi Faez Isa, will preside over the case. The bench includes Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhaill, Justice Athar Minallah, Justice Musarrat Hilali, and Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan. Chief Justice of Pakistan, Justice Qazi Faez Isa, initiated suo moto action on April 1 following the IHC judges' letter, highlighting alleged interference by intelligence agencies in judicial matters.

In conclusion, the Supreme Court's decision to consolidate these pleas underscores the gravity of the situation and the importance of addressing concerns regarding judicial independence. The upcoming hearing on April 30 will be closely watched as the bench deliberates on this crucial matter.