ISLAMABAD, Oct 30 (Alliance News): Supreme Court Justice Athar Minullah highlighted the critical role of the Constitution in safeguarding citizens’ fundamental rights, warning against any legislation that would restrict or abolish these rights.
He asserted that it is unimaginable for the Supreme Court to curtail citizens’ fundamental rights, as the court’s independence is solely built upon public trust.
In an additional note to a case regarding access to information, Justice Minullah emphasized that Article 19A of the Constitution grants the fundamental right to information, subject only to reasonable restrictions.
However, he clarified that this does not grant Parliament the power to limit the scope of such rights unreasonably.
Justice Minullah reiterated that Article 8 prohibits the state from enacting legislation that infringes upon fundamental rights.
He underscored the Supreme Court’s role in judicially reviewing actions by other institutions, emphasizing that any erosion of these rights would weaken public trust and, consequently, the independence of the judiciary.
The court’s strength, he noted, rests solely on the people’s confidence in its commitment to justice and accountability.
Endorsing former Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa’s decision, Justice Minullah further asserted that the right to information serves as a shield against corruption.
Matters such as the privileges of judges, employees, and the Supreme Court’s budget are of public significance, and citizens should not need to file requests to access such information.