Court, not government has to decide about immunity of PM from cases: SC

ISLAMABAD: Supreme Court (SC) has observed the court and not the law ministry or the government has to decide about the immunity of any one including Prime Minister (PM) from the cases.
A 3-member bench headed by the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry took up the Hajj scandal case for hearing Thursday.
He further remarked “no one can seek immunity on its own while sitting in home. Pakistani agents hire the buildings and later they commit corruption in it.

Why the government is not allowing the Hajjajs to resolve their problems”.
Director Legal FIA, Azam Khan and others senior officers appeared in the court. FIA presented the report. Investigation Officer Hussain Asghar was also present in the court.
CJP inquired from Azam Khan “Tell us for how long this case has to be run. One Hajj has passed and the second has come. The court got returned Rs 260 million You have done nothing.
Azam Khan said one minister has been challanned. Foreign office had written letter in connection with arrest of Ahmad Faiz. The minister had also talked about this matter but no response could be received from them.
CJP remarked “ no one should be deported due to us . We are not with any party. The accused should come back.
The court asked Additional Attorney Shah Khawar if  the former prime minister enjoys immunity in this case.
Shah Khawar said “ I am too surprised after reading it.
CJP remarked “ the matter of immunity can not be  resolved while sitting in the home. It is only resolved when it is demanded from the court.
Justice Ejaz  asked from counsel of former PM Yousuf Raza Gillani “ as to why you have decided about your immunity as  PM. You are enjoying  immunity while sitting in the home. Neither the law ministry  nor you have to decide about the immunity but it is the court which has to decide it.
CJP remarked “ law is there that  upto what extent immunity is available.
CJP remarked “ cases be got registered over the irregularities committed during the performance of Hajj  How the relief was given to the people.
Azam Khan said property of Rao Shakil has been sealed.
The court directed Additional Attorney General Shah Khawar  that prime accused  Ahmad Faiz be got deported from Saudi Arabia and brought to Pakistan, action be initiated against the high ranking officers involved in Hajj scandal and detailed report about criminal cases be presented before it.
The hearing of the case was adjourned till July, 23.  News Agencies