Justice Jahangiri challenges IHC's suspension order in SC

Justice Tariq Mahmood Jahangiri has challenged the Islamabad High Court’s (IHC) decision that barred him from performing judicial functions, 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Friday.

According to the report, in his appeal filed before the SC, Justice Jahangiri requested that the IHC order dated September 16 be declared null and void. 

In the appeal, Justice Jahangiri sought suspension of the order that stopped him from working until the final decision of the apex court. 

The petition further asked the Supreme Court to halt proceedings in the alleged fake degree case until its verdict is delivered and to allow the submission of additional documents with the appeal. 

Justice Tariq Mahmood Jahangiri’s appeal in the fake degree case has been allotted a diary number in the SC. 

Justice Jahangiri argued that no judge can be restrained from carrying out judicial duties except through the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC). 

He maintained that the IHC’s controversial ruling violated his fundamental rights under Article 10-A, harmed judicial independence, and tarnished his reputation. 

He added that unless the IHC order is suspended, irreparable damage will result.

Two days earlier, on September 17, 2025, the Islamabad High Court issued a two-page written order, signed by Chief Justice Sarfraz Dogar and Justice Azam Khan, preventing Justice Jahangiri from performing judicial duties until the SJC makes its decision.

The IHC had observed that the matter involved sensitive questions, including the judge’s eligibility, and noted that a complaint against him was already pending before the SJC. Until the council reaches a verdict, the court held, Justice Jahangiri must refrain from exercising judicial powers.

Additionally, the IHC directed the Attorney General of Pakistan and the Advocate General of Islamabad to assist the court in the matter on October 21. It also allowed another petitioner to become a party to the proceedings.

The ruling has highlighted the seriousness of the allegations and placed Justice Jahangiri’s role on suspension pending the SJC’s decision.

Reporter: Amanat Gishkori