The Islamabad High Court has dismissed a petition filed against the possible military trial of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Founder Imran Khan.
Additional Attorney General (AAG) Manoor Iqbal Duggal and a representative from the Ministry of Defense appeared at the hearing, presided over by Justice Miangul Hasan Aurangzeb.
During the proceedings, the additional attorney general informed the court that the federal government had not yet made any decision to conduct a military trial for Imran Khan. He emphasized that if such a trial were to take place, it would follow the proper legal procedure as outlined under Rule 549 of the Pakistan Army Act.
The AAG further explained that in the event a military trial is decided, the process would begin with the submission of an application to the civil magistrate. He assured the court that all legal protocols would be strictly followed if any such decision were made.
Following the federal government’s response, Justice Aurangzeb decided to dispose of the petition, noting that no immediate action was necessary as the matter remained undecided.
Also Read: Islamabad High Court seeks govt's stance on Imran Khan's military trial
On Sept 16, the IHC had directed the government to provide a clear stance on whether the former prime minister will face a military trial.
During the proceedings, Justice Aurangzeb had questioned the government's process for transferring civilians to military custody. "If someone's military detention is planned, what is the procedure?" he had asked.
The additional attorney general, representing the Ministry of Defense, stated that the ministry had no information regarding any potential military trial or detention for Imran Khan. He added that even if an application was submitted in this regard, any action would follow the law.
Justice Aurangzeb had also asked for the legal procedure for trying a civilian in a military court, instructing the Ministry of Defense's representative to present the relevant details. The judge also asked the petitioners if their application was premature.
"On your request, I did not issue a notice but sought a statement. If the response confirms there is going to be a military trial, then the matter would proceed," the judge remarked.
