Drone strikes in Pakistan a human rights issue: LHC CJ
LAHORE: Chief Justice Lahore High Court Umar Ata Bandial deferred till April 10 further hearing of a petition moved by Jamat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Muhammad Saeed against drone strikes in Pakistan.
During the hearing on Thursday, deputy attorney general (DAG) objected to the proceedings. He said that only parliament has the jurisdiction to take any decision in this regard and in case the parliament does not take up such matter of national interest, the Supreme Court can take up such a case. He argued that this matter is beyond the jurisdiction of High Courts.
Chief Justice remarked that it was a human rights case relating to fundamental rights of innocent citizens including women and children and hence the court could take notice. The CJ questioned DAG as to when the parliament would act over the drone attacks.
DAG then proposed to appoint some amicus curie (friend of court) to assist on this issue and proposed the name of Abid Hasan Manto for this purpose. Chief Justice observed that Manto is a senior counsel and we should first ask him and would appoint him with his consent only.
Hafiz Saeed sought direction for the federal government to ensure end of drone attacks on the soil of Pakistan. Counsel submitted that the government is making no efforts against the drone attacks, which have been continuously killing innocent civilians. He submitted that the federal government be directed to make information public in all matters of public importance, especially the secret deal’ with US. He said the resolution passed by a joint session of national assembly on May 14, 2011 was a voice of the people and needs to be implemented.
The counsel sought directions to declare that the pre-emptive strikes by foreign countries were not permitted by international laws, therefore, every man; woman and child have a right to be protected. He also sought a declaration that federal government has acted against the general will, collective wisdom and obligation to exercise its powers and authority through representatives of the people.
Source: Daily Times
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