Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space. They are published in good faith with a view to enlightening all the stakeholders. However, the contents of these writings may not necessarily match the views of the newspaper.
Judge jury & beneficiary
There is a basic principle of Islamic jurisprudence and an internationally accepted norm, that an individual should not sit in judgment on an issue, where he himself is a beneficiary. The formation of SC benches should be seen to take place on merit and not perceived to be composed of judges inclined to a particular point of view. A judge must always have an open mind (not empty mind). Perception of justice seen to be done is very important.
The proposed bill adopted by NA and Senate proposes to redefine regimentation of powers with the senior-most judge, and instead prefers collective wisdom of SCP to be exercised by three seniors of the court, to decide what should, or should not, merit a Suo Motto and also constitution of benches etc. Whilst appointment of CJP of SC is strictly on seniority, it is elevation from high courts where seniority is not given due consideration. Concentration of power in an individual is against the very concept of democracy.
Why should CJ of a high court not qualify for elevation and instead juniors be elevated? Unfortunately, of late, this cherry picking has caused a lot of anxiety and doubts and this definitely does not serve to protect the sanctity of SC which is very essential. SCP is an essential part of the judiciary and has a unique role, defined by the Constitution, to interpret and adjudicate. Basic concept of parliamentary democracy and 1973 Constitution is based on tracheotomy of powers, vested in three pillars of the State namely Parliament, Executive and Judiciary.
The very existence and legitimacy of all these three pillars of the State and powers vested in them are derived from the Constitution which is the mother instrument. Unfortunately, Pakistan was created through a constitutional political struggle with absolutely no armed struggle, since 1954 has had men at helm, who derived powers through barrel of a gun and not the ballot. The spirit of democracy must prevail.
MALIK TARIQ ALI
Lahore
Another deadly virus
Another deadly virus called Marbung is in the air. Marburg and Ebola viruses are both members of the Filoviridae family (filovirus). Though caused by different viruses, the two diseases are clinically similar. Both diseases are rare and have the capacity to cause outbreaks with high fatality rates.
The illness caused by the Marburg virus begins abruptly, with high fever, severe headache and severe malaise. Muscle aches and pains are a common feature. Symptoms become increasingly severe and can include jaundice, inflammation of the pancreas, severe weight loss, delirium, shock, liver failure, massive haemorrhaging and multi-organ dysfunction.
Severe watery diarrhoea, abdominal pain and cramping, nausea and vomiting can begin on the third day. Diarrhoea can persist for a week. The appearance of patients at this phase has been described as showing “ghost-like” drawn features, deep-set eyes, expressionless faces, and extreme lethargy. Many patients develop severe haemorrhagic manifestations between 5 and 7 days, and fatal cases usually have some form of bleeding, often from multiple areas. Fresh blood in vomitus and faeces is often accompanied by bleeding from the nose, gums and vagina.
Spontaneous bleeding at venepuncture sites (where intravenous access is obtained to give fluids or obtain blood samples) can be particularly troublesome. During the severe phase of illness, patients have sustained high fevers. Involvement of the central nervous system can result in confusion, irritability and aggression. Orchitis (inflammation of one or both testicles) has been reported occasionally in the late phase of disease (15 days).
In fatal cases, death occurs most often between 8 and 9 days after the symptom onset, usually preceded by severe blood loss and shock. There is no specific treatment for the Marburg virus disease. Supportive hospital therapy should be utilized which includes balancing the patient’s fluids and electrolytes, maintaining oxygen status and blood pressure, replacing lost blood and clotting factors and treatment for any complicating infections.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
Gas shortage in Karachi
I am writing to bring to the attention of the higher authorities of the severe gas shortage that has hit Karachi. The gas crisis has caused great inconvenience and hardships for the residents of Karachi, particularly during the month of fasting.
As you may be aware, the demand for gas increases during the month of Ramadan as people prepare special meals for iftar and sehri. However, due to the shortage of gas supply, many households are struggling to cook their meals on time. This has not only affected their daily routine but has also caused a lot of stress and anxiety during the holy month.
Furthermore, the shortage of gas has also impacted businesses and industries that rely on gas for their operations. This has led to a decline in productivity and profitability which is particularly concerning during these challenging times.
I urge the authorities to take immediate action to address the gas shortage issue in Karachi. This could include increasing the supply of gas to the city, ensuring that gas is distributed fairly and efficiently and exploring alternative sources of energy to meet the growing demand.
In conclusion, I hope that the authorities will take this matter seriously and take all necessary steps to resolve the issue as soon as possible.
ADEENA SAEED
Karachi
