The Supreme Court scrutinized the Punjab government’s appeals against the acquittals of Sanam Javed and Sheikh Rashid, stemming from cases dated May 9.
The court emphasized its commitment to upholding legal principles in its rulings.
During the proceedings, the Punjab government contended that the Lahore High Court had overstepped its authority by acquitting Sanam Javed, asserting that the issue was merely about a remand. Justice Hashim Kakar rejected this claim, highlighting the High Court’s full authority to intervene in instances where injustices are suspected.
Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim questioned the timing of the government’s actions, asking, “Did you only remember a year later that the accused committed a crime?” Justice Salahuddin added that the High Court is empowered with suo motu authority in criminal matters.
The court also evaluated the legal standing of the co-accused’s confession, inquiring, “What is its legal status? You know it as well.”
Justice Kakar remarked that the High Court judge may have overreached in his ruling, suggesting that the decision seemed emotionally charged and indicating that the case might be resolved. The hearing was subsequently adjourned indefinitely.
In a related matter concerning the GHQ attack, the Punjab government sought additional time to present evidence against Sheikh Rashid’s acquittal. Justice Kakar expressed significant discontent, stating, “If you want to seek an adjournment, do not come to this court again.”
He made it clear that adjournments are only permissible in cases involving the death of a judge, lawyer, or accused, while the special prosecutor requested permission to submit confessions.
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Expressing frustration, Justice Kakar stated, “Have some fear of God; Sheikh Rashid has been an MNA fifty times, where will he run off to?”
He reiterated that “whether the earth falls or the sky splits, nothing will happen outside the law in this court.”
The court instructed that the hearing be rescheduled for next week, sending a clear message to the Punjab government that political arguments would not be accepted without fulfilling legal requirements.
