Multiple petitions against the Practice and Procedure Act are being heard by a full bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa. In a historic first, the proceedings are being broadcast live on television. Four PTV cameras have been installed in the Supreme Court’s visitors’ gallery.
The federal government has taken a stance against the petitions, urging their rejection, and has also submitted a written response to the court. The government petition was upheld, and petitions against acts of parliament are not maintainable. According to Article 191 of the Constitution, Parliament may pass laws. The petition claimed that the Practice and Procedure Act has no effect on the judiciary’s independence.
The government’s petition further argues that the Act does not limit any authority of the Supreme Court. Therefore, the petitions against parliamentary laws lack merit and are inadmissible. Chief Justice Isa inquired about the presentation of arguments, particularly considering that there are nine petitioners involved in this case.
Additionally, Justice Ayesha Malik raised a important question about the status of Section 5 of the Act if the full court decides to hear the case. She questioned whether the right to appeal, as outlined in Section 5, would remain unaltered under these circumstances.
The public has a rare opportunity to participate in the judicial process and watch the discussions surrounding a matter of constitutional importance as this historic legal dispute plays out in front of the country. Without a doubt, the outcome of this case will have a significant impact on how Pakistan’s parliament and judicial system interact.
