The Peshawar High Court (PHC) has rejected the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government’s request to establish a judicial commission to investigate the riots that erupted on May 9. The KP government had sought a thorough judicial inquiry to uncover the causes and culprits behind the violent incidents that shook the province. However, the PHC declined the request, citing existing legal mechanisms already in place to address such matters.
The court emphasized the importance of relying on standard legal procedures and existing investigative bodies, suggesting that forming a new commission might duplicate efforts and lead to unnecessary delays. This decision has sparked mixed reactions from various political and civil society groups, with some supporting the court’s stance on judicial efficiency, while others express concerns over the adequacy of current investigations.
The May 9 riots had seen widespread unrest across KP, resulting in significant damage to public property and raising questions about the region’s law enforcement capabilities. The KP government argued that a judicial commission would provide an impartial and thorough investigation, ensuring transparency and accountability. Nevertheless, the PHC’s decision underscores the judiciary’s confidence in the existing legal framework to address the issue effectively.
As the situation unfolds, attention now shifts to how the KP government will respond to this legal setback and what steps will be taken to address the aftermath of the May 9 riots. The public and media continue to follow developments closely, eager to see justice served and order restored in the affected areas.
