ISLAMABAD: The federal government decided on Friday to submit a presidential reference pertaining to the Islamabad High Court (IHC) judges’ seniority case, while the Supreme Court adjourned the hearing for two weeks, DawnNews reported.

Attorney General Irfan Qadir submitted his written reply concerning the judges’ appointment case to the Supreme Court.

A four-member bench of the apex court led by Justice Khilji Arif Hussain heard the case on Friday.

Irfan Qadir informed the bench that President Asif Ali Zardari wished to submit a reference in regard to the case as the formation of the judicial commission was not in accordance with the Constitution. He added that in his reference, President Zardari would like to know more about the role he could play in this case.

Justice Asif Saeed Khosa remarked that according to Article 186 of the Constitution, the bench can only advise the president in regard to the reference. However, considering something as unconstitutional and not abiding by it was a dangerous trend, Justice Khosa added.

Petitioner Akram Sheikh said that unless there was a final decision about the petition, the IHC judges should be given interim authorisation to work.

Subsequently, the bench adjourned the hearing for two weeks.