In continuance of the hearing, the Supreme Court of Pakistan heard an intra-court appeal against the decision of trying civilians in military courts; Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan said that international norms did not expressly prohibit the court-martial of civilians.
Discussion over Fair Trial and International Norms
During the hearing, lawyer Salman Akram Raja argued that against the international fair trial standards that require openness and public access to trial proceedings- this being a flagrant violation of the fundamental rights of the civilians. He quoted a few global instances where appeals against military tribunals lay within the jurisdiction of ordinary courts.
Discussion over Legal Precedents
Justice Jamal Mandokhel stated that there are repercussions if international norms are violated; Salman Akram Raja replied that some are binding but others are not, stressing that in England military trials are presided over not by military officers but by independent judges.
UN Concerns on Pakistan’s Military Courts
Mr. Salman Akram Raja further quoted a report of the UN Human Rights Committee that says that Pakistan’s military courts are not independent and recommended that the government introduce bail for those kept in military custody. Meanwhile, the case remains in abeyance as the Supreme Court continues its deliberations.