The Supreme Court of Pakistan has deferred its decision on the plea filed by former Islamabad High Court (IHC) judge Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui challenging his removal from office due to a controversial speech against state institutions.
The five-member bench, led by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, has reserved the verdict and sought responses to specific questions raised during the proceedings. These include inquiries into the Supreme Judicial Council's actions, the potential relief for Siddiqui if the appeal is approved, and the appropriateness of the judge's speech.
The court has given parties three weeks to submit their responses. During the hearing, Chief Justice Isa emphasized the importance of respecting constitutional institutions and questioned the need for removing a judge based on a speech.
Siddiqui's dismissal in 2018 was a result of accusations of interference in judicial work and passing controversial remarks. The current case questions the legality of the Supreme Judicial Council's actions and seeks the annulment of Siddiqui's dismissal. The verdict is pending, with further judicial action possible based on the responses received.
