Islamabad – Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has announced that individuals involved in attacks on military installations will be tried in military courts. He urged the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to avoid politicizing this matter, emphasizing that the process is both lawful and necessary.
Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Tarar criticized PTI for turning military courts into a political issue. He clarified that these courts are solely tasked with cases involving attacks on defense establishments, such as the incidents at the Corps Commander’s House, Mardan, and Bala Hisar.
“When a military institution or its property is targeted, it falls under the jurisdiction of military courts, just like railway police handle crimes on railway premises,” he explained. Tarar further highlighted that such attacks invoke the Military Act, ensuring swift and appropriate legal action.
PTI’s Mixed Messaging on Military Courts
Tarar called out PTI’s inconsistent position on military courts. He reminded the public that during Imran Khan’s tenure, PTI leaders openly praised the role of military courts. “These endorsements can still be found on social media,” he said, “yet today, the same leaders are lobbying against them on international platforms.”
Fair Trials Assured
Addressing concerns about transparency, Tarar assured that military courts follow strict principles of justice. “Defendants are provided with legal representation, the right to meet family members, and the opportunity to appeal verdicts. Trials take place in the physical presence of the accused, and decisions can be challenged in the military’s judicial system or civilian High Courts,” he said.
He dismissed allegations of injustice, emphasizing that military trials adhere to both domestic laws and international standards. He urged PTI to acknowledge the gravity of the May 9 events and use the legal channels available for appeals instead of politicizing the issue further.
Convictions Following May Riots
Last week, military courts sentenced 25 civilians to prison terms ranging from two to 10 years for their involvement in attacks on key military sites during the May 2023 riots.
The convicts were found guilty of targeting locations such as Jinnah House, General Headquarters (GHQ), and the Pakistan Air Force Base Mianwali. According to the military’s media wing (ISPR), the sentences were handed down after thorough evidence review and legal scrutiny. Fourteen individuals received 10-year prison terms.
PTI’s Reaction
PTI leaders, including Omar Ayub and Asad Qaiser, have condemned the verdicts, arguing that military courts lack jurisdiction over civilians. They described the sentences as violations of human rights and the separation of powers between civilian and military judicial systems.
Why This Matters
The debate over military courts has reignited questions about their role in civilian trials. With the nation divided on the issue, ensuring justice and maintaining public trust remain key challenges for the government.
