In Lahore, Justice Shahid Kareem of the Lahore High Court has issued 5-point SOPs to prevent interference in the judiciary while making a significant decision. Justice Shahid Kareem issued a written order spanning four pages and appointed Hana Hafizullah as the court’s assistant prosecutor. The SOPs instruct sensitive government offices, including the Prime Minister’s Office, to direct that they refrain from approaching any judges or their staff in the superior and subordinate judiciary in the future.
The decision directs the Punjab Inspector General to instruct subordinate officers not to interfere in the judiciary. It mandates that any security measures in anti-terrorism courts require consultation and agreement with relevant judges. ATC judges must record every call on their mobile phones, and the Special Anti-Terrorism Courts of Punjab must prioritize all May 9 cases on preferential grounds. Justice Shahid Kareem stated in his decision that the ATC judge in Sargodha should fully cooperate with the court’s investigating officers, provide video recordings of investigations, and submit the investigation report to the court by July 8.
This decision of a judge named Shahid Kareem implies that the judiciary is doing everything possible to keep its autonomy and integrity safe from meddling. These instructions were given so as not to let outside pressure. Which politicians or law enforcers may bring about, in general, to the justice delivery process. He has appointed a deputy prosecutor and established strict rules for the security and transparency of judges. Aimed at promoting rule-based systems while restoring trust between the public and courts.
The decision to implement a procedure for recording phone calls by ATC judges is a testament to the court’s forward-thinking approach. This measure aims to protect trials from manipulation or influence. It is crucial in ensuring the fairness of our anti-terrorism tribunals. Which play a significant role in security matters affecting the Punjab state. Furthermore, the re-arrangement of cases according to certain ranks demonstrates. The court’s efficiency in case management and quick dispensation of justice.
Justice Shahid Kareem’s operational protocols underscore the importance of cooperation between police and prosecutors during the investigation process. The order directs the ATC judge sitting in Sargodha to work closely with investigators, providing them with. All necessary documents on time to avoid creating grounds for bias towards accused persons during trial. The order also requests the timely completion of investigation reports relating to terrorism and other serious crimes. Thereby speeding up the hearing process and ensuring swift justice.
Generally, protecting people’s rights involves ensuring judges’ independence. This requires proper guidance, as Justice Shahid Kareem demonstrated today. Lahore High Court has sought clarity by issuing these instructions and setting clear goals while safeguarding fairness at every stage. However, it is important to avoid falling prey to undue interference from external forces such as government officials. And other influential individuals within society circles who might misuse their power for personal gain. This move should see efficiency increase dramatically’, said one commentator
