ISLAMABAD: Islamabad High Court (IHC) sought response from government on issue of PTI founder Imran Khan's possible military trial. IHC's Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb heard application filed by Imran Khan against his potential military detention and trial.

Court sought explanation from attorney general office during hearing. Assistant Attorney General Azmat Bashir Tarar was called to rostrum in courtroom. Justice Aurangzeb stated that there were indications of Imran Khan's military trial if statements of some ministers were something to go by.  Justice Auraganzeb remarked "Imran Khan is civilian and possible military trial of civilian is matter of concern for applicant and court."

He remarked that clear stance must be issued by government on matter if ISPR director general issued statement hinting at military trial of Imran Khan.  Court asked government counsel to clearly inform him by Monday about this matter after taking directives from government. Additional Attorney General requested court to first decide on objections to application.

Justice Aurangzeb responded that he had removed reservations on application raised by registrar office and Supreme Court verdict about military trial of civilians was already available.  "If matter of Imran Khan's trial is under consideration, verdict will be issued after hearing case," court said. Consequently, IHC adjourned hearing against military trial of Imran Khan until September 16.

PTI founder filed application in LHC through his counsel Aziz Karamat, making federal government and inspector generals of police of all four provinces respondents.  PTI leaders including Barrister Gohar, Omar Ayub and Asad Qaiser reiterated that military detention and trial of Imran Khan in military courts was not acceptable.

Published in The Daily National Courier, September, 13 2024

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