ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) of Pakistan has strongly condemned the ‘criminal events’ of May 9, saying that targeting military installations poses a threat to national security, ARY News reported on Thursday.
In a statement, the Supreme Court Bar condemned the ‘criminal events’ May 09, wherein attacked was carried out on General Headquarters (GHQ) and Corps Commander House Lahore following the arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan.
“Such acts of violence and destruction not only undermine the rule of law but also threatened the stability and security of the country,” the SCBA said, adding that the bar conveyed its unwavering support to Armed forces of the country.
It further stated that attacking historical and cultural landmarks like Jinnah House was an assault on the shared heritage and identity of the people of Pakistan. “Similarly, targeting military installations poses a threat to national security,” it added.
At this juncture, the SCBA underlined that while it is important to address security concerns and maintain law and order, it is equally vital to uphold principles of justice, fairness, and due process.
Meanwhile, the bar opposed trials of arrested protestors under military acts, saying that trials to be conducted under military courts may raise questions about “transparency, impartiality, and the protection of civil liberties”.
“It is crucial to ensure that all individuals accused of crimes are granted their fundamental rights including the opportunity of fair trial before already in-placed criminal justice system,” it added.
SCBA is of the view that it is equally important to strike a balance between security imperatives and the protection of civil liberties, including the right to a fair trial.
Read More: COAS says ‘orchestrated May 9 violence will never be allowed again’
“To address these concerns, efforts should be made to strengthen the civilian judiciary, enhance its capacity to handle terrorism-related cases, and ensure that all individuals, regardless of their alleged crimes, are afforded due process and the protection of their fundamental rights and tried in accordance with law,” it added.
The bar called upon the government and law enforcement agencies to thoroughly, impartially and independently investigate the ‘criminal events’ of May 09, hold those actual responsible accountable, and ensure that justice is served.
May 9 events
Violent clashes broke out across Pakistan after former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan was arrested from the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday.
The protests were held in remote and major cities as the party workers are agitated due to their chairman’s arrest, with Balochistan, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Islamabad summoning the armed forces to ensure law and order.
Read More: Police identify culprits involved in attack on Jinnah House
Army installations and Corps Commander’s house in Lahore came under attack during a protest of PTI workers.
It was also reported that Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations Ali Nasir Rizvi sustained severe injuries wh
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