Are Pakistan's military trials justified?

The debate over military trials in Pakistan intensified after military courts sentenced 85 civilians to prison terms ranging from two to 10 years for their roles in the attacks on military sites on May 9, 2023.

Critics argue that such trials undermine the rule of law and violate fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution, including the right to a fair trial in a civilian court

Human rights organizations and legal experts have raised concerns about transparency, due process, and the potential misuse of military courts to suppress dissent or political opposition.

The European Union, the UK, and the U.S. also expressed concern over the sentencing. In a statement, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, "The United States is deeply concerned that Pakistani civilians have been sentenced by a military tribunal for their involvement in protests on May 9, 2023."

However, proponents of military trials argue that trying civilians in military courts was justified, given that military sites were the primary targets of the attacks. They assert that Pakistan's Constitution provides the legal framework for the operation of military courts.