ISLAMABAD: Following series of leaked audios against judges, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial  observed that Supreme Court is constitutional institution which is being “Maligned” via audio tapes.

Remarks were passed by top judge while heading two-member bench hearing plea filed by former Lahore capital city police officer Ghulam Mehmood Dogar against his transfer. During hearing, Supreme Court also disposed of appeal as it was taken aback by petitioner.

“Supreme Court is constitutional institution which is being maligned through audio tapes,” CJP said. He added that apex court will work with patience to protect institution. “These audio tapes defaming constitutional institutions are of no importance. We are being patient and taking lenient view of these tapes. We will protect institution,” said CJP. He added that it was unfortunate that baseless and false allegations have been made against judges in audio and video leaks. “What is authenticity of these audio and video tapes?” remarked CJP. Earlier at outset of hearing, Dogar’s lawyer Abid Zuberi told court that he wishes to take back petition. Meanwhile, Election Commission of Pakistan’s lawyer informed court that election schedule has been issued for polls in Punjab.

“As per Article 218 holding free and fair elections is our responsibility. For level-playing field, ECP has power to shuffle bureaucracy,” said lawyer. He added that caretaker government can also transfer officers with ECP’s approval. At this, Justice Yahya Afridi asked, when does ECP exercise its power of issuing transfer and posting orders? CJP Bandial remarked that ECP uses power to transfer officers to ensure transparent elections. “It has been proven that caretaker government transfers officials with ECP’s permission.” “Election Commission itself can give orders to caretaker government to transfer officers,” said CJP.

Moving on, CJP Bandial remarked that ECP has wide-ranging powers, adding that all political parties should get an equal chance during elections. Top judge also remarked that ECP should not give free hand to caretaker government for transfer of officers. He added that ECP should ask caretaker government about such transfers. “At times Supreme Court’s words are misinterpreted,” said CJP. He added that court had remarked that in 1988 there was an honest prime minister which was misunderstood by Parliament. “We did not say that till now there has been only one honest prime minister,” clarified CJP. He added that court has protected constitutional institutions in its decisions. “Judiciary is being attacked and judiciary we will be protected,” said top judge.

Published in The Daily National Courier, March, 23 2023

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