Supreme Court to probe police excesses during CJP protests

The Supreme Court has decided to constitute an independent panel to examine complaints of police brutality and violence during protests connected to the Chief Justice of Pakistan issue. The committee will have a mandate to thoroughly investigate the allegations and submit its findings to the court for further consideration.

In a significant development, the apex court is also weighing the possibility of quashing first information reports (FIRs) that were registered against student participants in the demonstrations. This move reflects growing judicial concern over the proportionality of police response to the protests.

The decision comes amid mounting complaints from civil society organizations and legal experts about alleged heavy-handed tactics employed by law enforcement agencies during the demonstrations. The protests, which have drawn significant student participation, witnessed clashes between demonstrators and police in several cities.

The establishment of the committee represents an attempt by the judiciary to balance public order concerns with protection of fundamental rights to peaceful assembly and protest. The three-member panel is expected to complete its investigation and submit a comprehensive report detailing its findings regarding the conduct of police personnel during the demonstrations.