IHC seeks clarity on Imran's military trial

Says possible court martial of a civilian is a matter of concern

ISLAMABAD:

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has sought clarification from the PML-N-led federal government regarding its stance on the potential court-martial of former prime minister Imran Khan, who is currently detained at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail.

IHC Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb on Thursday heard a petition filed through Advocate Aziz Bhindari against Imran's potential transfer to military custody for trial, while also addressing objections raised by the court's Registrar Office regarding the petition.

The petitioner's lawyer argued that both the director general of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) and some federal ministers had recently hinted at a possible military trial for Imran. He said Imran is a civilian and the military trial of a civilian is a matter of concern for both the petitioner and the court.

"If something of this nature is planned, the federation should present a clear stance. If today we say there is nothing, but tomorrow you bring an order for a military trial, what will happen then?" the lawyer questioned.

The court said that such statements are political rhetoric. "You are saying there is no case, but one could arise in the future," the judge noted. When the lawyer mentioned the ISPR director general's comments, the court reiterated that such remarks were also politically driven.

The court later dismissed the Registrar Office's objections, noting that the Supreme Court has a precedent regarding the trial of civilians in military courts. It sought a response from the federal government by September 16, asking whether a military trial for the PTI founder is being considered.

"The military trial of a civilian is a matter of concern for the court. Provide a response as to whether the military trial of the PTI founder is under consideration. If nothing of the sort has happened, the petition will become ineffective; otherwise, the court will hear the case and make a decision," the judge stated.

Last month, military authorities arrested former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Lt. General Faiz Hameed on charges of misuse of power. Following the arrest, Imran Khan voiced concerns that the establishment aimed to use Hameed to hold his trial in a military court.