ISLAMABAD: The Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) on Tuesday ruled that its earlier order in the case related to the proposed “Imran Khan Release Force” remains in force, making it clear that no action should be taken that could disturb public order while the matter is under judicial consideration.
A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Amin-ud-Din Khan heard the constitutional petition challenging the formation of the “Imran Khan Release Force.” During the hearing, lawyers representing the respondents requested more time to submit their replies. The court accepted the request and adjourned the proceedings until after the summer judicial recess.
The petitioner urged the court to extend its previous restraining order, arguing that the possibility of unrest still existed. However, Chief Justice Amin-ud-Din Khan observed that the earlier order had not expired and therefore continued to remain effective. He stated that the court expected all parties to act responsibly and not take the law into their own hands.
The petition alleges that the proposed “Imran Khan Release Force” amounts to the creation of an unconstitutional private force and seeks legal action to prevent its formation. On the other hand, representatives of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) argued that the initiative is merely a political campaign aimed at mobilizing supporters for Imran Khan’s release and does not involve the creation of any armed or unlawful organization.
After hearing the initial arguments, the FCC decided to defer further proceedings until the respondents file their detailed replies. Until then, the court confirmed that its earlier directive will continue to apply, ensuring that no steps are taken that could lead to a breakdown of law and order.
