Islamabad: The Supreme Court has taken suo moto notice of a letter written by six judges of the Islamabad High Court (IHC). This comes just days after the federal government established a commission to investigate allegations of interference and criticism from various circles.

Former Chief Justice Tassaduq Hussain Jillani, who was supposed to lead the inquiry commission, cited personal commitments and expressed his inability to complete the task, despite initially showing willingness to do so.

A seven-member bench, led by Chief Justice Faez Isa, will address the matter on Wednesday. The bench also includes Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Jamal Mandokhail, Justice Athar Minallah, Justice Musarrat Hilali, and Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan.

Previously, a three-member committee consisting of the Chief Justice and the two most senior judges, Justice Shah and Justice Munib Akhtar, decided to take suo moto notice. Following legislation introduced by the previous PDM-led coalition government, the formation of benches and matters like suo moto notice are now determined by this institutional panel.

These recent developments coincide with the federal cabinet’s approval last week of an inquiry commission led by former Chief Justice (r) Jillani, a highly respected jurist known for his impartial views.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, along with Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar and Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan, met with Chief Justice Isa on Thursday. Justice Shah and Supreme Court Registrar Jazeela Aslam were also present to assist the Chief Justice during the meeting.