AG Mansoor Usman Awan Cancels Departure to ICJ Over India’s Actions

Islamabad: Attorney General of Pakistan, Mansoor Usman Awan, stated that the focus has shifted from the Sindh Canal issue to India’s recent actions, which have drawn international attention. He revealed that Pakistan’s departure to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) scheduled for today was canceled in light of India’s actions.
The remarks were made during a hearing in the Supreme Court regarding an intra-court appeal against the decision of military courts to try civilians. A seven-member bench, headed by Justice Aminuddin Khan, conducted the hearing.
Attorney General Awan appeared before the court and mentioned that he had three key points to present during the proceedings. He explained that the first part of his argument would cover the incidents of May 9, for which the Defense Ministry’s lawyer, Khawaja Haris, had already presented his arguments. Awan also highlighted that his second point would focus on the assurances made during the hearing of the central case, while the third would address the issue of the right to appeal.
The Attorney General added that providing the right to appeal to those facing military trials is a policy matter, and he could only present his arguments after obtaining instructions on the matter. He also clarified that earlier discussions revolved around the Sindh Canal issue, but now the situation regarding India has captured everyone’s attention. He confirmed that the planned departure to the ICJ had been called off due to this.
Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhel commented that the Parliament should handle its own policy matters, as the court is only concerned with this specific case. Meanwhile, Attorney General Awan emphasized that he was presenting his submissions and that it would be up to the court to decide whether to allow time for further proceedings. He further stated that military tribunal clauses had been in place since 1967.
Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhel responded with remarks suggesting that if the civilian system had failed, all cases should be sent to military courts.
Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar asked how much time Awan would require for his arguments, to which the Attorney General replied that he would conclude within 45 minutes. The hearing was adjourned until May 5.