The Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) has overturned the Sindh government’s decision to remove three Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) judges. The ruling protects judges appointed before changes to the provincial law.
The court also cancelled the Sindh High Court’s December 22, 2025, decision, which supported the government’s action.
Constitutional Court Rejects Sindh Government’s Notification
Justice Muhammad Karim Khan Agha authored the written judgment.
The court ruled that the new retirement age limit of 65 years could not affect judges appointed before the 2025 amendment.
It explained that authorities cannot remove existing legal rights without clear provisions in the law.
The ruling declared the government’s removal notification invalid.
ATC Judge Muhammad Yameen Wins Legal Battle
The case involved Muhammad Yameen, who challenged his removal from Anti-Terrorism Court-IV in Karachi.
The Sindh government appointed Yameen on September 19, 2024, for two and a half years.
He was approximately 70 years old when he received the appointment.
At that time, the law did not specify a maximum age for ATC judges.
However, the Sindh Anti-Terrorism Amendment Act 2025 introduced a 65-year age limit.
Following the amendment, the provincial government removed three judges from their positions.
Court Protects Judges’ Existing Terms
The Constitutional Court accepted Yameen’s appeal and overturned the earlier High Court ruling.
It directed that Yameen could complete his original term, subject to existing legal conditions.
The judgment also clarified that the amendment could not apply to earlier appointments without clear legislative authority.
The decision reinforces legal protections for judges serving under fixed-term appointments.
