The Supreme Court of Pakistan has postponed this week’s hearing on the Punjab government’s appeals seeking to cancel the bail of accused individuals involved in the May 9 incidents. The decision comes after a request from the Punjab government’s legal counsel, citing the need for additional preparation time.
Hearing Delayed Until After Eid
According to Geo News, the Supreme Court has removed all scheduled cases for May 9 and 10 from its roster. During the proceedings, lawyer Zulfiqar Naqvi, who has been appointed by the Punjab government to handle the cases, requested an extension to prepare effectively.
Responding to the request, Chief Justice Yahya Afridi remarked, The cases of May 9 were scheduled for tomorrow and the day after tomorrow. Previously, the additional prosecutor had been appearing and requesting time. Now, you are asking for more time. This process cannot continue indefinitely. There are nearly 50 appeals in this matter.
Punjab Government’s Argument for Postponement
The Punjab government’s legal representative urged the Supreme Court to delay hearings for this week, assuring that preparations would be completed in time for next week’s cases. Chief Justice Afridi acknowledged that some appeals were linked to the transfer of cases and instructed the lawyer to seek government directives regarding this matter.
After considering the plea, the three-member bench, led by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, granted the Punjab government’s request for a postponement. The hearing of all related cases will now take place after Eid.
Background of the Case
The Punjab government had previously approached the Supreme Court to overturn the Lahore High Court’s decision, which had granted bail to several accused individuals involved in the May 9 incidents. The government contends that those accused should not be released and has sought the Supreme Court’s intervention to revoke the bail orders.
The May 9 incidents refer to a series of protests and alleged acts of violence, leading to legal proceedings against numerous individuals. The Punjab government has consistently argued that these cases require strict judicial oversight and that granting bail could hinder the ongoing investigations.
Impact of the Postponement
The delay in the hearing extends uncertainty for both the accused and the government’s legal team. The Supreme Court’s decision to adjourn proceedings until after Eid means that:
- The accused individuals will remain on bail until the next hearing.
- The Punjab government will have additional time to strengthen its legal arguments.
- The judicial process surrounding the May 9 cases continues to be prolonged, raising concerns about timely justice.
Legal experts believe that the Supreme Court’s eventual ruling on these appeals will set a significant precedent for handling similar cases in the future.
The Supreme Court is expected to resume hearings after Eid, during which the Punjab government will present its case in detail. The legal battle over the May 9 incidents remains a crucial issue, drawing national attention as authorities and the judiciary navigate the complexities of justice, law, and public order.
