KARACHI: A local court in Karachi has reserved its verdict on a petition seeking the registration of a criminal case against US President Donald Trump, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, Indian PM Narendra Modi, and Hibatullah Akhundzada. The hearing was conducted by Additional District and Sessions Judge (West) Syed Ahmed Yusuf. After hearing arguments from the petitioner’s counsel and reviewing the police report, the court concluded the proceedings and reserved its judgment.
Arguments from the Petitioner
Advocate Jafar Abbas Jafri, representing the petitioner, informed the court that they attempted to file the application at the local police station twice, but the police refused to accept it. He argued that the court should direct the police to record statements and register the case under Section 125 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). The counsel maintained that the actions of these global leaders are affecting millions of Pakistanis and that legal action is permissible if terrorism in a neighboring country impacts Pakistan.
Court’s Observations and Jurisdiction
During the hearing, the court raised significant questions regarding the maintainability of the petition. The judge inquired whether the individuals named in the petition are Pakistani citizens or currently present in Pakistan. The court remarked that a petition against international heads of state is generally not maintainable under local laws. The judge asked the counsel to justify how the PPC applies to citizens of foreign countries residing abroad, suggesting that such matters should be taken to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). In response, the counsel argued that only governments have the standing to approach the ICJ, while common citizens are left to seek justice in local courts due to the distress caused by international conflicts.
Police Response
The police submitted a formal report to the court stating that the legal team is attempting to register a case against foreign heads of state without providing any evidence of their direct involvement in terrorism within Pakistani territory. The police concluded that a First Information Report (FIR) cannot be registered on these grounds. The court is expected to announce its final decision on the maintainability of the petition at the next hearing.
