Justice Isa Raises Questions On Zia-Era Qanoon-e-Shahadat Order

Supreme Court Judge Justice Qazi Faez Isa has raised questions on the legitimacy of the Qanoon-e-Shahadat Order, introduced in military dictator Zia ul Haq’s era. During a hearing in the apex court, Justice Isa asked the lawyer, "Is qanoon-e-shahadat ordinance or an Act?"

He went on to say that military dictators are free to violate the constitution and are not made answerable. Further, Justice Isa said that government representatives are scrutinised over petty matters.

The judge made these remarks during a hearing of specific performance case. The petitioner’s lawyer, Munir Paracha, made a reference to the Qanoon-e-Shahadat while giving his arguments, after which Justice Isa raised questions on the legislation.