LHC seeks IG reply on May 9 cases

Justice Pannun says people cannot be left in jails to die after being re-arrested

LAHORE:

The Lahore High Court on Friday sought a written report from the Punjab inspector general of police regarding the action taken in the May 9 cases and the procedure of geo-fencing.

Justice Anwarul Haq Pannun remarked that people cannot be left to die in jail as they are being re-arrested after release.

Justice Pannun heard a petition of woman, Kulsoom Arshad, challenging the re-arrest of her son Shoaib Arshad after his release.
The Punjab inspector general of police in the court.

Justice Pannu told the IG that he had no desire to call him. “You are the police chief of the largest province of the country. We expect the police to support the courts properly. If a citizen is released from one case, they are arrested in another. What is happening? Why is the law not being followed?”

The IGP apprised the court that important installations, including the Jinnah House, were damaged in the incidents on May 9. “Arrests are being carried out through geo-fencing. These incidents took place in the cities, including Gujranwala and Lahore in Taliban style. After the identification parade, innocent persons will be released.”

The IG said that the person in question had been arrested with the help of social media and CCTV footage.

The IG apprised the court that two WhatsApp groups had also been found, and action was being taken after checking it. “We are arresting those who are involved in torturing policewomen and officers. Investigations are being conducted by forming JITs in the listed cases.”

Justice Pannun remarked, “You, me and government institutions are all employees […] we get salary. People have employed us. We have not been appointed to rule, but to serve. Deal all cases according to the law. Don't give priority to anyone. You also have to retire. We also have to retire. IG Sir! You and we have to live in the same society after retirement.”

Justice Pannun remarked that they could not leave people to die in jails.
Later, the court sought a written report from the Punjab IG regarding the action taken in the cases and the procedure of geo-fencing.