Legal Case Summary

Case Details
Case ID edaece82-96cb-43f9-b615-6f89f47a6054
Body View case body.
Case Number Constitutional Petition No. 35 of 1997
Decision Date Dec 02, 1997
Hearing Date
Decision In light of the extraordinary circumstances prevailing in the country, including a complete breakdown of constitutional machinery and rampant rowdyism during court proceedings, the Supreme Court deemed it necessary to issue an interim order suspending the operation of the Thirteenth Amendment. The court noted ongoing disobedience to its orders and threats to the judiciary, necessitating immediate protective measures to uphold the rule of law and ensure the security of judges amid political turmoil.
Summary This case revolves around a constitutional petition challenging the validity of the Thirteenth Amendment Act of 1997, amidst chaotic political conditions in Pakistan. The Supreme Court faced significant disruptions during hearings, including intimidation and rowdyism from government supporters. The court's decision to suspend the operation of the Thirteenth Amendment reflects its commitment to maintaining judicial integrity and constitutional order. The case underscores the ongoing struggle between the judiciary and executive branches in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for safeguarding judicial independence and upholding constitutional mandates in the face of political pressures. Keywords: constitutional law, judicial independence, political turmoil, Pakistan Supreme Court, Thirteenth Amendment.
Court Supreme Court of Pakistan
Entities Involved Government, Supreme Court, Judiciary
Judges SAJJAD ALI SHAH, C.J., MUHAMMAD BASHIR, JEHANGRI, CH. MUHAMMAD ARIF
Lawyers Shehzad Jehangir, M.A. Zaidi, Mian Tariq Mehmood, Ashtar Ausaf Ali
Petitioners Syed IQBAL HAIDER
Respondents FEDERATION OF PAKISTAN, others
Citations 1998 SLD 1167, 1998 SCMR 181
Other Citations Not available
Laws Involved Constitution of Pakistan (1973)
Sections Art. 184(3), Thirteenth Amendment Act (I of 1997)