Punjab opposition leader moves LHC against law allowing trials under confidential regime in terrorism cases

LAHORE – The Leader of the Opposition in the Punjab Assembly, Moeenuddin Riaz Qureshi, has submitted a constitutional petition to the Lahore High Court challenging recent amendments to the province's anti-terrorism law. The amendments, which were passed by the Punjab Assembly last month despite resistance, introduce a confidential regime for terrorism trials that can keep the identities of judges, prosecutors, defence lawyers, and witnesses secret.

Qureshi contends that the new Section 21AAA of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, conflicts with the existing section 21AA and violates constitutional rights to open justice, fair trial, equality before the law, and separation of powers. He argues that the provision lacks objective criteria for when a case falls under the special regime and questions the excessive delegation of legislative power to an anonymous executive official.

Qureshi has requested the court to declare Section 21AAA unconstitutional and suspend its application, including restraining authorities from classifying cases as "special security cases" until the petition is resolved. Under the new provision, a designated authority can declare a case or class of cases as a "special security case," and the identities of those involved in the proceedings would remain confidential.