ISLAMABAD: Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar insisted that trials under Army laws meet "Internationally acknowledged minimum requirements" that form basis of fair trial.

Expressed his views to media after meeting of Supreme Judicial Council here he said gave right to appoint counsel of choice, reduce defence evidence, have access to relevant record and seek judicial review.

Army laws "Covered all these [aspects] and that is why it is said that they meet internationally acknowledged minimum requirements pertaining to procedure and law", he added. When asked whether any "Special considerations" were being mulled regarding trial of women under Army laws, he replied: "Matters [pertaining to military trials] will be decided according to operation of law. It is not choice of government or any institution. "Relevant institution will proceed on this in line with how they are satisfied with [available] material." However, he continued no case of woman had been referred to military court till now.

His remarks come amid concerns over government's decision to try May 9 suspects under Army laws.

Published in The Daily National Courier, June, 15 2023

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