Islamabad, Pakistan – Web Desk: A constitutional bench in Pakistan on Monday questioned the federal government over bringing legislative matters before the judiciary, as it adjourned hearings on proposed legal changes concerning Gilgit-Baltistan.
During proceedings, Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi remarked that the government had previously criticized judicial interference but was now itself seeking court involvement in legislative affairs.
“Why is the court being asked to permit legislation?” Justice Rizvi observed, suggesting that such matters should be resolved through political consultation and parliamentary processes. He warned that debating parliamentary issues in court could “open a new Pandora’s box,” potentially complicating institutional boundaries.
The Constitutional Court of Pakistan directed authorities to submit records related to the proposed legislation and adjourned the hearing.
Additional Attorney General Amir Rehman argued that the government had the authority to legislate but required clarity in light of a prior Supreme Court ruling.
Justice Razi Khan described the matter as political, urging the government to resolve it independently rather than seeking judicial intervention.
Officials informed the court that the proposed legal framework aims to include pension provisions for judges in Gilgit-Baltistan and define a five-year term for members of the regional assembly.
Justice K.K. Agha also questioned the urgency of the move, noting that governments typically take longer in such legislative processes.
The three-member bench, headed by Justice Rizvi, adjourned the hearing pending further submissions.
