SC gives IHC judges’ counsel time to review respondents’ statements

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court has adjourned until April 29 pleas challenging the transfer of judges to Islamabad High court and seniority issue.

A five-member Constitutional Bench headed by Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar heard the case on Monday. Other members of the bench were Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan, Justice Shahid Bilal, Justice Shakeel Ahmed and Justice Salahuddin Panhwar.

Justice Mazhar observed that all written responses from all the parties have been received. “Do you wish to submit a rejoinder to these responses?” Justice Mazhar asked Muneer A Malik, counsel for the six judges of Islamabad High Court (IHC). “Yes, I will submit a written rejoinder,” the counsel replied. “How much time will you need?” asked Justice Mazhar. “Please allow time until next Thursday, Malik replied. “Why so much time? Many lawyers still have to present arguments,” Justice Mazhar noted.

Similarly. Faisal Siddiqui, counsel for the Karachi Bar, told the court that he would not be available next week. Likewise, Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan submitted that he will also be abroad. “Let’s not drag this case,” Justice Mazhar said, adding that they have also the military courts case next week. “We can schedule this case for the morning, as military court’s case is at 11:30am,” Justice Mazhar said.

Meanwhile, Muneer A Malik sought time for reviewing the responses, filed by parties, adding that he received the copies on Tuesday. Later, the court adjourned the hearing until April 29.