CJP threatens opponents of dams with high treason case

LAHORE: Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar on Saturday said that he will try opponents of dams under Article 6 of Constitution of Pakistan if they don’t mend their ways, ARY News reported.

In his remarks during the hearing of a case pertaining to use of underground water by mineral water brands, the country’s top judge said that he has started studying the Article 6 of the Constitution which defines high treason and will try those opposing the dam under the law.

He maintained that his only purpose is to serve the nation and if anyone hinders the process of building water reservoirs he may as well try him for high treason.

During the hearing, the government’s counsel told the judge that mineral water companies buy underground water at the rate of Rs25 per litre and sell it at approximately Rs50 per litre while the companies were selling underground water for free till 2018.

The CJP said that the point is if these water bottles actually contain minerals or not as the companies are selling it at an exorbitant price.

He added that he himself is drinking boiled tap water as he knows that the poor people of this country can’t afford to drink mineral water.

The court, while adjourning the hearing, summoned the CEOs of all mineral water companies on Sunday 11AM.

Article 6 of Constitution of Pakistan- High treason

The Article 6 of the Constitution of Pakistan states that:

6. High treason.— Any person who abrogates or subverts or suspends or holds in abeyance, or attempts or conspires to abrogate or subvert or suspend or hold in abeyance, the Constitution by use of force or show of force or by any other unconstitutional means shall be guilty of high treason.]

(2) Any person aiding or abetting 2[or collaborating] the acts mentioned in clause (1) shall likewise be guilty of high treason.

3[(2A) An act of high treason mentioned in clause (1) or clause (2) shall not be validated by any court including the Supreme Court and a High Court.]

(3) Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament)] shall by law provide for the punishment of persons found guilty of high treason.