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Military Courts Grant Mercy to 19 May 9 Convicts Amid Ongoing Legal Debate
In a recent development, military courts have granted mercy to 19 convicts involved in the May 9 riots, citing humanitarian grounds. While 48 appeals remain under review, this remission reflects a balance between due process and compassion.
ND
by News Desk
2025-01-02
Military Courts Grant Mercy to 19 May 9 Convicts Amid Ongoing Legal Debate

Islamabad: Military courts have granted remission to 19 individuals convicted for their involvement in the May 9 riots of 2023. The decision, announced today, was described as a move reflecting “due process and fairness,” with considerations of humanitarian grounds playing a significant role.

The convicts, who were serving two-year rigorous imprisonment sentences for incidents at various military and public installations, are set to be released following procedural formalities. The convicts granted remission include individuals involved in incidents at the ISI Office Faisalabad, Punjab Regimental Centre Mardan, and other locations.

According to the military’s statement, 67 convicts have submitted mercy petitions, of which 48 have been forwarded to appellate courts, while 19 were granted clemency. The remaining petitions are under review.

A Controversial History

The May 9 riots erupted nationwide following the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan. The protests resulted in at least 10 deaths, hundreds of injuries, and significant damage to military and public infrastructure, including the Lahore Corps Commander’s House and the ISI Office Faisalabad.

The events led to the trial of civilians in military courts, a decision that has faced substantial criticism. On October 13, 2023, the Supreme Court had declared such trials unconstitutional, but a subsequent ruling conditionally allowed military courts to proceed with trials while barring final convictions until further notice.

PTI’s Stance

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan criticized the military trials, stating, “No civilian should be tried in military court. It remains unconstitutional.” He acknowledged the remission as a “good thing” but maintained that such trials should be conducted in civilian courts to avoid the stigma of military convictions.

A Humanitarian Gesture or Controversial Leniency?

The remission aligns with a previous move in April 2024, when 20 convicts were pardoned after serving major portions of their sentences. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) emphasized that this decision showcases a justice system that balances the principles of compassion with accountability.

The Supreme Court’s final ruling on the legality of military trials for civilians remains pending, leaving the broader legal and political implications unresolved.

Conclusion

The military’s decision has drawn mixed reactions, underscoring the complexity of balancing justice, compassion, and constitutional principles in politically charged cases. The remission serves as a moment of relief for the convicts and their families, while the broader debate on military trials continues to unfold in the legal and political arenas.
Tagged:

PakistanPolitics

May9Riots

MilitaryCourts

JusticeAndCompassion
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