A writ petition has been filed in the High Court challenging the authority of the President to pardon convicted individuals without a clear policy framework. Supreme Court lawyer Advocate Ishrat Hasan submitted the petition today, Monday, in the interest of public accountability and transparency.

The petition questions the constitutional basis and procedural clarity surrounding the exercise of presidential clemency powers, particularly in cases involving convicted individuals. Advocate Ishrat Hasan, the petitioner, contended that without a structured guideline or policy, such discretionary authority could potentially undermine the judicial system and the principles of justice.

The writ seeks a judicial review of the matter, requesting the High Court to evaluate whether the existing practice aligns with constitutional provisions and principles of natural justice. The petition highlights that while the President holds clemency powers under the Constitution, the absence of a formalized framework raises concerns about arbitrary or inconsistent application of this authority.

The issue has sparked significant public interest, with legal experts and policymakers debating the necessity of reforming the process to ensure accountability and safeguard judicial integrity. The petitioner emphasized that the writ was not an attempt to question the President's constitutional powers but rather a call for a standardized process to ensure fair and transparent use of such authority.

The High Court is expected to schedule a hearing on the matter soon, and the outcome could have far-reaching implications for the legal and constitutional landscape of the country.