The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Assembly unanimously passed a resolution demanding the immediate withdrawal of verdicts announced by military courts.
The joint resolution was presented by PTI MPA Abdul Salam Afridi during the last K-P Assembly session of 2024 on Tuesday.
The resolution stated that a system of justice exists for every citizen of the country under the Constitution and law, beginning with civil courts, and culminating in the Supreme Court.
It emphasised that a transparent trial is the constitutional and fundamental right of every citizen. "Sentencing through military courts not only undermines justice, but also deprives citizens of their basic rights," the resolution read.
The resolution further highlighted that such decisions have brought disgrace to Pakistan on an international level and constitute a violation of human rights. It condemned the unconstitutional and biased decisions of military courts, and called for their immediate reversal.
The assembly urged the provincial government to recommend to the federal government that military courts withdraw their decisions and ensure an impartial and independent investigation into the events of May 9.
IGP briefing
Following a briefing by the K-P inspector general (IG) of police on the law and order situation in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Speaker Babar Salim Swati clarified that parliament will now decide where military deployment or action is necessary.
He stated a briefing will also be sought from officials of the 11 Corps. During Monday's provincial assembly session, the IG was invited to discuss the law-and-order situation. On Tuesday, he briefed provincial ministers and assembly members, who also provided various suggestions.
Based on these, another briefing will be conducted. Speaker Babar Salim Swati presided over the session, which was attended by the IG, ministers, and MPAs.
The speaker emphasised that Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa holds the status of a "buffer zone". The purpose of the briefing was to assess the police's capabilities. According to the IG, the police and Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) are performing their duties effectively.
"The police's capabilities are commendable, and any decision regarding the need for military deployment will now be made by the parliament," the speaker declared. "No action will be supported without its approval.'
Opposition member Ahmad Kundi appreciated the inclusion of opposition members in the session, stating that people demand safety and that in-camera sessions provide hope for resolving issues. He also recalled the speaker's success in resolving matters amicably during the Pashtun Tahafuz Jirga.
During the session, Jails IG Akhtar Hayat Gandapur presented a comprehensive report on law and order, discussing the current situation and listening to members' suggestions.
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