The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Monday withdrew a contempt notice previously issued to Additional Registrar (Judicial) Nazar Abbas in connection with a case scheduling dispute.
A two-member bench, consisting of Justice Mansoor Ali Shah and Justice Aqeel Abbasi, ruled that Abbas had not willfully committed contempt of court. The bench clarified that the Practice and Procedure Committee, as well as the Judges’ Constitutional Committee, had failed to comply with a judicial order, leading to the matter being referred to the Chief Justice of Pakistan. The Chief Justice was tasked with constituting a full bench to address the situation further.
Abbas had earlier faced significant repercussions when he was served with a show-cause notice and removed from his post on January 20. This action followed the scheduling of a constitutional case before a regular bench, an act the court deemed to be “serious misconduct.” In response, Abbas challenged the notice, asserting that he had not violated any judicial orders. He also emphasized that he had duly informed the Practice and Procedure Committee about the situation.
In light of Abbas’ appeal, the Supreme Court subsequently established a six-member bench to hear his intra-court appeal, which is scheduled for January 27. The case has generated significant attention, as it concerns the proper scheduling of constitutional matters and adherence to court orders. The proceedings will shed light on the complex issues surrounding judicial procedure and the accountability of court officials.
This development marks a critical moment in ensuring that proper protocols are followed within Pakistan’s judicial system, with the Supreme Court now focusing on clarifying the legal aspects of the matter.
