Better to Sacrifice Life Than Become an Accomplice, Says Former Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui

Islamabad – Former Islamabad High Court judge, Justice (R) Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui, has said that it is better to sacrifice one’s life than to become an accomplice in wrongdoing. He made the remarks while addressing a ceremony organized by the Islamabad High Court Bar Association.
Recalling an incident following his speech at the Rawalpindi Bar, Justice (R) Siddiqui said, “Many people questioned what I had done. They reminded me that I was a potential candidate for the position of Chief Justice.” He added that even if someone gains power or wealth by becoming an accomplice, they will ultimately regret their actions.
Justice (R) Siddiqui expressed his gratitude towards the Bar, recalling that he last visited it on September 30, 2018, and owed it a debt of support during challenging times.
Discussing the current Islamabad High Court building, he shared that the land was allocated in 2012 after directing the CDA chairman to present proposed locations. He noted his suspicion that others might have an interest in the land, which led him to insist on documenting everything thoroughly. He also shared that a design competition was held for the building, attracting hundreds of architects.
He lamented that despite a vision for a bright and ventilated courthouse, the execution fell short. The building was originally scheduled for completion in November 2015 but has been delayed by five years due to contract changes. He emphasized that the court is meant to serve justice equally to all.
Justice (R) Siddiqui reiterated that Islamabad High Court is not a Federal High Court, advocating for the appointment of judges from within Islamabad. He also highlighted advancements in virtual court proceedings, noting that five out of six benches of the National Industrial Relations Commission (NIRC) have been connected via video link, allowing lawyers to present arguments from their own cities. The saved travel allowances are now being redirected to staff welfare, with only the Peshawar bench yet to be connected.