The security sources has lauded the decision of Anti-terrorism Court (ATC) against the perpetrators of the May 9 tragedy, which proved that no one is above the law and the decision is tantamount to a victory of the justice system, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Tuesday.
May 9, 2023, is a tragic chapter in Pakistan's history that can never be forgotten when charged PTI workers and leaders, on the instructions of the PTI founder Imran Khan committed a heinous act that even Pakistan's enemies could not have imagined.
The security sources opined that by disrespecting state institutions, damaging national property, attacking military installations and dishonouring martyrs' memorials, violent elements not only violated the constitution and law but also openly attacked the integrity of the country.
The biggest question after the incident was whether Pakistan's justice system was strong enough to bring the culprits to justice. The recent rulings by the Anti-Terrorism Courts (ATCs), based on clear evidence has proved that the judiciary in Pakistan was fully capable of punishing those who break the law.
The courts have sentenced 108 people, including opposition leaders Omar Ayub, Shibli Faraz, Zartaj Gul, and Sahibzada Hamid Raza, in two major May 9 cases. Most of them were given 10-year prison terms. Out of 185 suspects, 108 were convicted, while several others, including Sial Castro, Fawad Chaudhry, and Zain Qureshi, were found not guilty.
Earlier, on July 22, ATCs in Sargodha, Lahore, Faisalabad, and other cities had also sentenced dozens of political figures and workers to 10 years in prison for their involvement in the May 9 violence.
The stance of Pakistan Armed Forces regarding the May 9 tragedy has been clear, unequivocal and unwavering from the beginning. The ISPR said that May 9 is not just an attack on the military, but on the entire nation, and that those responsible must be punished under the law. There will be no forgiveness for those who attacked military sites and martyrs’ memorials.
Military courts also awarded punishments based on complete legal procedures, evidence, and video footage. On December 21, 2024, 25 people were sentenced, and on December 26, another 60 were convicted. However, on January 2, 2025, 19 convicts were pardoned after their appeals for mercy were accepted.
The source said that on May 9, 2023, a tragic and unforgettable event took place in Pakistan's history. On the alleged orders of the PTI founder, violent groups attacked state institutions, military buildings, public property, and even memorials of martyrs. These acts broke the law and the Constitution and were a direct threat to the country’s unity and security.
Sources said these decisions not only serve justice to the victims of May 9 but also act as a strong warning against any future anti-state activities. This judicial process stands as a symbol of the rule of law, the dignity of the state, and the triumph of justice.