A new court order has reshaped how authorities can stop passengers from traveling abroad. The Lahore High Court has issued clear directions to protect citizens from arbitrary offloading at airports.
Court Sets Strict Conditions for Passenger Offloading
The Lahore High Court has tightened the legal requirements for stopping passengers from traveling overseas. Justice Ali Zia Bajwa issued the interim order while hearing a petition filed by Chaudhry Shehryar Qandeel.
The court directed authorities to provide written reasons immediately if they prevent any citizen from traveling. These reasons must be issued on the spot and must rely on clear legal authority.
The judge ruled that passengers holding complete and valid travel documents cannot be stopped casually. Authorities must strictly follow due legal process before restricting travel.
Freedom of Movement Declared a Constitutional Right
During the hearing, Justice Bajwa emphasized the constitutional right to freedom of movement. He observed that administrative discretion alone cannot override this fundamental right.
The court noted that personal liberty cannot be restricted without explicit legal backing. Any attempt to stop a passenger must be justified under existing law.
Justice Bajwa further clarified that undocumented administrative decisions violate constitutional protections. Therefore, offloading without lawful grounds is not permissible.
Authorities Asked to Cite Legal Provisions
The court observed that officials often offload passengers moments before departure. However, authorities failed to cite specific legal provisions during the hearing.
Officials requested time to explain under which statutory clauses such actions were taken. Consequently, the court directed government law officers to present relevant legal sections.
Justice Bajwa stated that the state must show clear authority whenever liberty is restricted. Without such authority, the action becomes unlawful.
No Written Record Raised Serious Concerns
During proceedings, a government law officer admitted that no written reasons existed on record. This admission raised serious concerns regarding transparency and accountability.
However, the officer assured the court that written reasons would be provided. The judge stressed that verbal explanations cannot replace documented legal justification.
Written reasons, the court noted, help ensure fairness and prevent misuse of power. They also allow citizens to challenge unlawful actions effectively.
Why This Order Matters for Travelers
This ruling strengthens legal safeguards for passengers traveling abroad. It ensures that citizens are not stopped without proper justification.
Moreover, the order promotes accountability among enforcement agencies. It also reinforces the importance of constitutional rights in administrative decisions.
Travelers can now expect clearer procedures and documented explanations if offloaded. As a result, arbitrary travel restrictions may face increased judicial scrutiny.
