Justice Musarrat Hilali Highlights Overreach During May 9 Unrest

Islamabad, February 13, 2025 — Supreme Court Justice Musarrat Hilali has expressed concern over the actions taken during the May 9 disturbances, suggesting that certain measures may have exceeded legal boundaries.

Scrutinizing the Response

Justice Hilali emphasized the importance of adhering to constitutional principles, even in times of unrest. She questioned the proportionality of the response and called for a thorough review to ensure that all actions were within the ambit of the law.

Upholding the Rule of Law

The Justice’s remarks underscore the judiciary’s role in safeguarding civil liberties and ensuring that state actions remain accountable, reinforcing the commitment to the rule of law.

This is a significant statement from a Supreme Court Justice, especially concerning events as sensitive as the May 9th disturbances. Here’s what we can glean from this:

• Concerns about Legality: Justice Hilali’s statement suggests that some of the actions taken in response to the May 9th events may have overstepped the boundaries of the law. This raises questions about due process, the use of force, and the protection of civil liberties during times of unrest.
• Potential for Judicial Review: This concern from a Supreme Court Justice could lead to legal challenges or judicial review of the measures taken. The courts might be asked to determine whether those actions were indeed lawful and proportionate to the situation.
• Public Debate: Justice Hilali’s statement is likely to fuel public debate about the events of May 9th and the government’s response. It adds a layer of scrutiny and could prompt calls for greater transparency and accountability.
• Importance of Rule of Law: This situation highlights the importance of upholding the rule of law, even during times of crisis. It underscores the need for checks and balances to ensure that responses to public disturbances are within legal and ethical bounds.

It’s important to note that this is just one perspective, and further investigations or legal proceedings may shed more light on the matter. However, the statement from a respected Supreme Court Justice is a serious matter and deserves attention.