Former Islamabad High Court (IHC) judge Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri approached the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) , filing a petition to contest his removal from the high court. He seeks to overturn the decision that led to his dismissal.
Jahangiri was ousted in December last year after President Asif Ali Zardari acted on an order from the IHC. The court had ruled that his appointment to the high court lacked “lawful authority.” The move has since ignited discussions in legal and political circles across Pakistan.
Court verdict and background of the case
The original IHC verdict came from a division bench led by Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar, alongside Justice Muhammad Azam Khan. The bench reviewed a petition questioning the validity of Jahangiri’s law degree. Since his qualifications were in doubt, the court also questioned the legality of his appointment. The bench concluded that his appointment did not meet the required legal standards.
The petition against Jahangiri was initially filed by lawyer Mian Dawood. In his FCC petition, Jahangiri has named Dawood as one of the respondents. The case now revolves around whether his removal followed proper constitutional procedures and judicial safeguards.
Respondents and legal framework under challenge
Jahangiri’s petition lists several respondents apart from Dawood. These include the federation of Pakistan, the president, the Judicial Commission of Pakistan, the now-defunct parliamentary committee for appointing judges to superior courts, the Higher Education Commission, and the University of Karachi. By naming these respondents, Jahangiri aims to challenge both the legal and administrative processes behind his removal.
Legal experts say this case could have wide implications for Pakistan’s judiciary. They note that it may clarify the procedures for appointing judges and the standards required to validate their qualifications. Jahangiri’s petition also raises questions about accountability, transparency, and the president’s role in judicial appointments.
Future proceedings and implications for judiciary
Experts say the FCC will closely examine the original IHC verdict and the reasons for Jahangiri’s removal. The court may hold multiple hearings before reaching a final decision. Meanwhile, legal analysts are actively debating the petition’s impact. Many believe the case could shape future judicial appointments and reinforce the integrity of Pakistan’s judiciary.
