SC turns down govt plea seeking new IGP Islamabad

Khudayar Mohla
ISLAMABAD, (TLTP) Top police officer of the capital Jan Muhammad resumed duty on Thursday soon after the Supreme Court turned down federal government’s plea seeking appointment of a police chief in prevailing law and order situation in Islamabad.
Appearing before a three-member bench led by Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar, Attorney General for Pakistan (AGP) sought permission to appoint new Inspector General Police (IGP) in Islamabad due to non availability of Jan Muhammad who was in abroad.
Rejecting government plea in the matter, Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar just allowed the federation to give acting charge to another officer till Jan Muhammad is out of the country.
During the proceedings, Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar observed while citing verdict on Asia Bibi case, saying the judges who acquitted the accused have great respect and love for the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) as any other faithful.
Pointing out a legal preposition, Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar raised a question that how could the court award punishment to an accused in absence of a legitimate case, adding that the same judges who have authored the verdict are ready to embrace martyrdom for the love of the Holy Prophet (PBUH).
Referring Prime Minister Imran Khan recent address to nation over spate of agitation in post scenario of verdict announcement, Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar said that it is government responsibility to maintain law and order in the country. He further said that an active IGP was essential for the maintenance of law and order.
Chief Justice said while addressing to the AGP that additional charge has been given to an officer in case an IGP is out of the country. He issued directives to government to observe the same procedure in the matter.
It is pertinent to mention that Supreme Court has taken notice over some reports that IGP Islamabad was transferred without following procedure anss sought report from secretary establishment and interior in the matter. However, it has been reported that Jan Muhammad had arrived in Islamabad late Wednesday and resumed his duty Thursday morning soon after the apex court decline the government request to replace Jan Muhammad.