ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Friday directed all state institutions to remain and work within the ambit of the constitution.
In a short order on a petition on suspension of basic human rights, a larger bench of the apex court headed by Chief Justice Nasir-ul-Mulk and comprising Justice Jawwad S. Khawaja, Justice Mian Saqib Nisar and Justice Asif Saeed Khosa issued a stay order against any extra-constitutional steps.
The petition was filed by the president Supreme Court Bar Association Kamran Murtaza, arguing that fundamental rights were in danger and had requested the court to issue an order against any possible extra-constitutional steps that could be taken in the country in light of the country’s prevailing sensitive political situation.
The apex court directed all institutions, authorities and officials of the state to work according to the constitution.
It said that violation of court’s orders would be treated as treason and punishable under article 6 of the constitution and also issued notice to the federation.
The court also declared that a judgment of July 31, 2009 in this regard on the extra-constitutional steps of November 3, 2007 also exists and it should be implemented.
