IHC Strips Justice Tariq Mahmood Jahangiri of Appointment, Orders Removal

ISLAMABAD – The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has delivered a groundbreaking verdict declaring the appointment of Justice Tariq Mahmood Jahangiri as unconstitutional and unlawful. In an 116-page judgment authored by Chief Justice Sardar Sarfraz Dogar and Justice Muhammad Azam Khan, the court unequivocally ruled that Jahangiri’s position should be removed with immediate effect.

The judges highlighted several critical points in their ruling. At the time of his appointment, Justice Jahangiri did not possess a valid law degree recognized by the legal community. The IHC noted that without such a qualification, no one is eligible to practice as an advocate or serve as a high court judge.

Moreover, the university records showed that Tariq Mahmood had appeared in examinations under two different enrollment numbers and names. This discovery further underscored his irregular academic background. According to the judgment, Jahangiri’s appointment was therefore unconstitutional from its inception.

The IHC’s decision emphasized that courts are integral institutions designed for public benefit rather than personal convenience. By disqualifying a judge who fails to meet constitutional criteria, the court reaffirmed its commitment to upholding transparency and accountability within the judiciary.

Justice Sardar Sarfraz Dogar’s judgment underscored the importance of adhering strictly to legal standards in judicial appointments. He stated that any deficiency in eligibility or evidence of fraud automatically disqualifies a judge from holding office. The IHC further clarified that administrative approvals cannot replace basic requirements; a flawed appointment remains invalid.

The court maintained that preserving judicial independence is paramount, but it does not confer immunity from accountability. Jahangiri’s case serves as a reminder of the need for robust vetting processes to ensure all appointees meet stringent standards.

This verdict underscores the IHC’s dedication to upholding constitutional principles and ensuring fair and transparent proceedings within Pakistan’s judiciary system.