In new twist to Justice Isa case, his wife appears before FBR

Full court directs govt law officer to submit report on new development

ISLAMABAD: In a new twist to Justice Qazi Faez Isa’s case,  his wife is reported to have appeared before taxmen to enquire why they had not issued a notice to her for alleged non-disclosure of overseas properties. This was disclosed by Salman Akram Raja, the counsel for Pakistan Bar Council (PBA), before the 10-judge full bench of the apex court on Wednesday.

The full court asked Raja if he could verify the reported development. Justice Maqbool Baqar said if she has appeared before the Federal Board Revenue (FBR), then it might change the course of the case. Muneer A Malik, the counsel for Justice Isa, confirmed she had visited FBR officials, but found them non-cooperative.

Justice Umar Ata Bandial said if she wants to explain the source of funds, then she should be given the opportunity. He also directed the FBR to cooperate with her. The full court also directed Additional Attorney General Chaudhry Amir Rehman to submit a report about the new development. Justice Yahya Afridi asked him to check with the president if he still wants to pursue the reference against Justice Isa.

Earlier, Raja stated that instead of giving a notice to the petitioner judge on any alleged discrepancy by the taxman, the presidential reference was filed against him. “Judges are not immune to giving an explanation to the taxman regarding any discrepancy in their tax records,” he added.

The full court adjourned the hearing until Monday. It is expected that the  top law officer would start arguments after the PBA counsel wraps up next week.

Superior bars representatives believe the appearance of Justice Isa’s spouse before FBR officials is significant but if she fails to explain the source of funds for the purchase of her overseas properties, then the petitioner judge might be in trouble.