ISLAMABAD: In a historic move, Pakistan's Supreme Court, presided over by Chief Justice Qaez Faez Isa, has allowed live telecast of proceedings on a set of petitions challenging the SC (Practice and Procedure) Act 2023. This marks the first time in the country's judicial history that the full court, comprising all 15 judges of the apex court, is broadcasting proceedings concerning the contentious law that seeks to regulate the suo motu powers of the top judge.

The decision to hold a full court hearing was made during a meeting of all the judges, with Chief Justice Isa emphasizing that arguments in the case would start afresh, given the formation of a new bench.

Prior to the hearing, Attorney General for Pakistan, Mansoor Usman Awan, submitted the federal government's response, urging the court to dismiss the petitions against the Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Act. The government argued that petitions against acts of parliament are inadmissible.

In preparation for this historic occasion, five cameras were installed in the courtroom, four in the visitors' gallery, and one at the lawyers' rostrum. The full court was constituted by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa and includes distinguished judges.

The decision to allow live broadcasting and the guidelines for effective case hearings were deliberated during a full court meeting, shortly after Justice Isa took office as the CJP. Upon his arrival at the court, CJP Isa emphasized the importance of treating visitors like guests and keeping the doors to justice open.

This momentous development marks a significant step towards transparency in Pakistan's judicial system, setting a precedent for future proceedings.