ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has reserved judgement on the maintainability of a petition challenging the appointment of a labour officer in Islamabad.
IHC Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani expressed annoyance with the petitioner over his apparent ignorance of his own petition, inquiring him at whose behest he had filed the case. “Do you know the person against whom you have filed this petition?” he asked.
When the petitioner’s counsel attempted to intervene, Justice Kayani directed him to remain quiet, stating, “I am requesting you to let me ask questions from the petitioner.” The judge once again asked the petitioner who had instructed him to file the petition. The petitioner replied that he had filed it himself.
Justice Kayani remarked, “You don’t know what post the respondent holds, the person against whom you have filed the petition? Nod your head, or you will be sent to jail. Are you not ashamed of this? How much money have you received? Tell me the name or department on whose behalf you have filed this petition.”
Justice Kayani added, “You know the meaning of lying in court. A message came to you from Dera Ismail Khan, and you filed the petition.” He then directed the court staff to have the petitioner remain seated in the courtroom.
The petitioner’s counsel approached the rostrum and requested the court to allow the petitioner to leave. Justice Kayani remarked, “He is free. He is a free citizen.” The counsel responded, “I have become confused due to this quo warranto petition.”
Justice Kayani remarked, “Many people have become confused over big quo warranto cases. No one stands before the system. Once, a man challenged the appointment of a PhD professor. The petitioner had not even passed the 5th grade. Let those who are involved in the fight, fight it out.” After hearing the arguments, the court reserved judgement in the case.
