Trial of civilians in military courts case: SC amends Dec 13 order

ISLAMABAD (Online): Supreme Court (SC) while issuing order in respect of trial of civilians in military court case has amended December 13 order on restraining  military courts from announcing decision.

It has been said in the order that Attorney General (AG) told during the hearing  105 cases are pending hearing in military courts. Some in  the cases of 15 to 20 persons can be acquitted.

A 6-member larger bench presided over by Justice Amin ud Din had heard the case.

It was further said in the order issued by them  that as per Attorney General (AG) some cases are of lesser punishment.

AG told the court too that the period of detention of the accused will also  be included in case sentence is given.

AG requested that permission be given for announcing the decision of  acquittal or lesser sentence

Counsel  of no party opposed the amendment to the extent of AG plea.

Military courts can announce the decision in acquittal and lesser sentence cases. Due to court’s orders, the rights of the accused and respondents will not be affected.

AG should  file report with reference to decisions before the next hearing.

The hearing of the case will take place in fourth week of April  subject  to availability of bench.