An Islamabad court has expunged a controversial observation referring to “terrorist states” from its earlier judgement in a case involving activist Imaan Hadi, following objections raised over the language used in the ruling.
The remark had drawn attention for its broad phrasing, with legal experts and rights advocates arguing that such terminology was unnecessary to the substance of the case and could carry serious diplomatic and legal implications. The court, upon review, acknowledged these concerns and ordered that the observation be removed from the written judgement.
According to the revised order, the court clarified that the expunged comment was not essential to the final decision of the case and that its inclusion could lead to misinterpretation. The judge emphasised that judicial findings must remain confined to the facts and legal questions directly before the court, without extending into generalised or politically sensitive characterisations.
The move has been welcomed by sections of the legal community, who stressed the importance of cautious language in judicial rulings, particularly in cases that attract public and media attention. Analysts noted that while courts have wide discretion in reasoning their judgements, sweeping remarks can overshadow the core legal issues and invite unnecessary controversy.
Imaan Hadi’s case had already been under scrutiny due to its wider implications for civil liberties and state authority. The removal of the observation is being seen as an effort to refocus attention on the legal merits of the case rather than peripheral commentary.
Legal observers say the decision underscores the judiciary’s willingness to revisit and correct aspects of its own rulings when concerns are raised, reinforcing the principle that judgements should remain precise, restrained, and grounded strictly in law.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.