ISLAMABAD: An Islamabad High Court (IHC) judge has withdrawn from a case concerning the repatriation of section officers appointed on deputation after raising concerns about alleged attempts to influence him through telephone calls.
Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir announced his decision on Friday after expressing displeasure over the reported contact attempts. He said seeking recommendations or arranging calls to influence a judge was inappropriate.
Judge Objects to Attempts to Influence Proceedings
During the hearing, Justice Tahir criticised the petitioners for allegedly trying to approach him outside the courtroom. He stressed that such conduct was unacceptable and should not form part of judicial proceedings.
The judge also clarified that he could consider the petitioners’ legal arguments. However, he maintained that the alleged attempts to contact him raised concerns about the proper conduct of the case.
Following his remarks, Justice Tahir recused himself from further proceedings.
Deputationists Challenge Repatriation Decision
The case concerns section officers who were appointed on deputation and later directed to return to their respective provinces.
Counsel for the petitioners, Raja Aleem Khan Abbasi, told the court that the officers had originally worked as teachers. He said they had challenged the government’s notification ordering their repatriation.
The petitioners are also seeking regularisation of their services and absorption into the Office Management Group (OMG). Their legal challenge includes objections to the relevant notification and the decision affecting their current positions.
Case Referred to IHC Chief Justice’s Office
After recusing himself, Justice Tahir directed that the case file be sent to the office of the Islamabad High Court chief justice for further proceedings. The petitioners include Khalid Mahmood, Muhammad Arif, Dilshad Ahmed, Saeed Chaudhry, Dr Muhammad Ismail and Najeebullah.
The case will now proceed through the court’s administrative process for further handling. The reported allegations concerning attempts to contact the judge remain distinct from the legal merits of the petition, which have yet to be resolved.
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