Lahore High Court Orders Woman Appointed Permanent Numberdar in Lodhran
The Lahore High Court (LHC) issued a landmark ruling on Friday, ordering authorities to appoint a woman as the permanent numberdar in Tehsil Dunyapur, Lodhran district. The court declared attempts to reduce her score based on community bias illegal and annulled the appointment of Mohammad Azam.
Justice Raheel Kamran Sheikh’s eight-page written verdict stated that denying women equal opportunities in public positions violates constitutional principles. The decision overturned the Deputy Commissioner Lodhran and the Board of Revenue, which had blocked Kulsoom Akhtar’s appointment.
The position became vacant following the death of the previous numberdar. Kulsoom Akhtar submitted her application for permanent appointment but was allegedly given a score of zero based on community considerations, effectively removing her from the merit list. Records showed that her father had previously held the post.
The court emphasized that the numberdar role is a public responsibility and not a hereditary right. It also highlighted Kulsoom Akhtar’s extensive experience in rural affairs, revenue matters, and public liaison work. The verdict ruled that the Board of Revenue had failed to properly assess legal conflicts and merit.
Revenue authorities have been directed to issue the official appointment notification for Kulsoom Akhtar within 30 days.