ISLAMABAD: Even before the 27th Constitutional Amendment has been formally unveiled, its effects are already rippling through Pakistan’s judicial corridors. On Friday, the proposed amendment came under challenge in the Supreme Court, while a wave of administrative activity hinted at preparations for the establishment of the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) — a key element said to be part of the government’s legislative package.
Sources within the Islamabad High Court (IHC) indicated that the new FCC may be housed in the Federal Shariat Court (FSC) premises, with discussions underway to relocate the FSC to the third floor of the IHC building. The FSC currently operates with only three judges out of its sanctioned strength of eight, and officials confirmed that arrangements are being made to vacate space for this reshuffle.
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The move sparked remarks from within the Supreme Court itself, where Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail observed that a mere “change of building” would not reduce the court’s authority. His comments came during a separate hearing, after a counsel humorously expressed reluctance to argue “while standing inside the Shariat Court building.” The exchange reflected broader unease among legal circles about the implications of the proposed restructuring.
Meanwhile, a petition filed by Barrister Ali Tahir urged the Supreme Court to restrain the federal government from advancing any bill that undermines the constitutional jurisdiction of the superior judiciary. The plea argued that Articles 184(3) and 199, which define the powers of the Supreme Court and high courts, form part of the Constitution’s basic structure and cannot be diluted through amendments. The petition sought a declaration that any attempt to create a parallel judicial body would be unconstitutional.
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With political and judicial attention converging on the 27th Amendment, the unfolding developments underscore a sensitive struggle between institutional reform and judicial independence — a debate that may reshape Pakistan’s constitutional framework in the weeks ahead.