In response to allegations of meddling in the affairs of the capital’s high court by state institutions, the federal government has announced the formation of an inquiry commission. Minister for Law Azam Nazeer Tarar made the announcement, stating that the commission would be established under the Pakistan Commissions of Inquiry Act [1956].
The decision comes after six Islamabad High Court judges sent a letter to the Supreme Judicial Council detailing the alleged interference. Minister Tarar emphasized that all institutions must operate within their designated boundaries, stating, “Institutional interference is never acceptable under any circumstances.”
The inquiry commission’s formation follows a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, where they discussed the letter from the IHC judges. Tarar revealed that the CJ had consented to the formation of the commission and that a retired judge would be requested to lead the investigation.
Despite the seriousness of the issue, Tarar dismissed the notion of a constitutional crisis, stating that the CJ promptly took action upon receiving the letter. He emphasized the importance of transparency in addressing such issues and noted that the PM would present all decisions before the cabinet.
The government’s move to establish an inquiry commission underscores its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all institutions operate within their prescribed boundaries.
