If it does its job . . .: SC not to upset govt’s apple cart, says CJP

ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar on Monday assured the federal government that the Supreme Court will not interfere in its working.

He passed this observation while hearing an application against the illegal appointment/mala fide proposed extension in the tenure of chairman Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore. The CJP took notice on the application of General Secretary Medical Teachers Association, Sheikh Zayed Hospital Dr. Muzammil Tahir and General Secretary Allied Health Organization, Sheikh Zayed Hospital Dr. Nasir Din.

The chief justice said the government should work in accordance with its mandate and the apex court will not meddle in its affairs. He said the apex court judges were sacrificing their time for dispensation of justice and rule of law.

The applicants alleged that the incumbent chairman, Farid Khan, was appointed on the recommendation of a politically-titled search committee in violation of prevalent policy of the Federation and province.

The application stated that Farid Khan was a junior professor but he was promoted to BS-22 in a federal organisation and appointed as chairman, violating all the legal requirements. The application alleged that nepotism and politically-motivated polices of Farid Khan had halted the hospital’s smooth working.

It was further alleged that Farid Khan not only made appointments and granted promotions but also victimised many officials for highlighting his alleged corruption. It was further stated that Farid Khan stayed in the office from 10.04.2015 to 09.04.2018 and currently his tenure was being extended.

Taking notice of the issue, the chief justice directed the registrar’s office to treat the application as a petition under Article 184(3) of the Constitution and issue notices to the Punjab government through chief secretary and secretary health. Notices will be also issued to Advocate General, Punjab, Farid Khan, and the applicants. The matter will be heard on April 4.