Lahore, The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed grave concerns regarding allegations of interference by the state’s intelligence agencies in the judicial process. These allegations, made by six high court judges, suggest that such actions have severely compromised the independence of the judiciary, specifically within the Islamabad High Court.
According to Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, The complaints, detailed in a letter to the Supreme Judicial Council on March 25, accuse intelligence operatives of meddling in legal proceedings and the formation of judicial benches. This interference is feared to represent a systematic attempt by the executive to manipulate judicial outcomes in cases with significant political implications. Disturbingly, the judges also report that their family members have been subjected to abduction and torture, and that they themselves have faced illegal surveillance within their own homes, acts allegedly perpetrated by intelligence personnel to intimidate and influence judicial decisions.
The HRCP warns that if higher court judges are susceptible to such overt interference, the independence of lower courts is likely at even greater risk. This situation threatens the very foundation of legal integrity in the country, undermining citizens’ access to justice—a fundamental principle enshrined in the constitution.
Furthermore, the HRCP emphasizes the urgent need for reform, advocating for the intelligence services to be placed under transparent civilian control through new legal frameworks. Such measures are deemed essential for reinforcing democratic checks and balances and restoring faith in the country’s judicial and institutional frameworks.