Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri of the Islamabad High Court on Monday objected to Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar’s inclusion in the bench hearing a petition related to the verification of his academic degree, terming it a clear conflict of interest. Addressing the court, Justice Jahangiri stated that since he had filed a petition involving the chief justice, Justice Dogar should not preside over a case concerning him.
The objection arose during proceedings on a petition filed by Advocate Mian Dawood, which seeks verification of Justice Jahangiri’s LLB degree. The matter stems from a controversy after the University of Karachi cancelled the degree following approval of a resolution by its syndicate, acting on the recommendations of the Unfair Means Committee.
Justice Jahangiri expressed strong reservations about the composition of the bench and demanded that the case be assigned to another bench. He maintained that his degree was valid, stating that the university had not declared it fake or denied issuing it.
He also highlighted procedural concerns, noting that he received the court notice without a copy of the petition and that the case pertained to events dating back more than three decades. Stressing legal norms, he argued that a quo warranto petition should be heard by a single bench rather than a division bench.
The judge further criticised the decision to stop him from judicial work, calling it unprecedented in judicial history, and said the three-day notice given to him was insufficient to prepare a response or engage legal counsel.
In response, the Islamabad High Court summoned the University of Karachi registrar with the relevant record and directed that copies of the petition and documents be provided to Justice Jahangiri. While the petitioner sought daily hearings, Chief Justice Dogar assured Justice Jahangiri of due process and fairness.
The court adjourned the hearing until Thursday, December 18.
