JCP confirms three IHC Judges, approves one for BHC

Islamabad (Web Desk): The Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) on Monday moved forward with the confirmation of four judges, recommending three for the Islamabad High Court (IHC) and one for the Balochistan High Court (BHC).

The meetings, conducted in various compositions and led by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi, also considered important institutional and policy issues, according to a statement from the Supreme Court.

By majority vote, the commission endorsed Justice Muhammad Azam Khan, Justice Muhammad Asif, and Justice Inaam Ameen Minhas for permanent positions at the IHC.

Justice Najam-ud-Din Mengal received a recommendation to be confirmed at the BHC, while Justice Ayub Khan, who has been serving as an additional judge at the BHC, did not secure the majority needed for confirmation.

The commission, acting under Article 175A (2) of the Constitution, reviewed the criteria for nominating judges to constitutional benches, assessed procedures for judicial interviews, and examined proposed changes to the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (Appointment of Judges) Rules, 2024, particularly regarding appointments to the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC).

Following these deliberations, the commission authorized a dedicated committee to study the matters in depth and provide recommendations aimed at ensuring the constitutional framework is applied in an effective and transparent manner.

As per the sources, members of the JCP associated with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) were absent from the meetings.