Islamabad: In a significant development underscoring the state’s commitment to law and order, individuals involved in the violent attacks on state property and martyrs’ memorials on May 9, 2023, have been awarded sentences in accordance with the law.
The violent incidents, carried out under the guise of political protest, targeted military installations and symbols of national sacrifice in a well-organized campaign across the country.
The military leadership has consistently maintained a clear and firm stance on the events of May 9. During an address at Lahore Garrison on May 9, 2024, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir reiterated that all planners, facilitators, and perpetrators of the attacks would be brought to justice. Similarly, the Corps Commanders’ Conference held on March 5, 2024, emphasized that those responsible for incitement, encouragement, and desecration of martyrs’ monuments would face full legal accountability.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has declared that the May 9 tragedy is not only a matter of institutional concern for the armed forces but also a national issue. The DG ISPR stated unequivocally that those involved in attacking military facilities and memorials will not be granted any leniency.
Military courts, established under Pakistan’s constitutional and legal framework, have sentenced a number of individuals after due legal process and evaluation of credible evidence. On December 21, 2024, 25 convicts were sentenced by military courts, followed by 60 more on December 26. On January 2, 2025, 19 convicts were granted clemency after submitting formal requests.
In parallel, anti-terrorism courts have also handed down punishments. The Anti-Terrorism Court in Lahore sentenced PTI leaders Dr. Yasmin Rashid, Mian Mehmood ur Rasheed, Ejaz Chaudhary, and Sarfraz Cheema to ten years in prison each, following the presentation of conclusive evidence. Similarly, the ATC in Sargodha sentenced opposition leader in the Punjab Assembly, Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar, Ahmad Chattha, and 32 PTI workers to ten-year jail terms.
Authorities stress that bringing all responsible parties to justice is essential for upholding the rule of law and preventing future attacks on national dignity and order. These verdicts signal the state’s firm resolve to protect the sanctity of martyrs’ memorials and ensure that national cohesion is not undermined by acts of violence or disruption.
