LHC takes disciplinary action against two civil judges

The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday took strict disciplinary action against two civil judges after they were found guilty of misconduct and incompetence in separate departmental inquiries, according to an official notification.

In the first case, Civil Judge Malik Allah Ditta Anjum was penalized with a reduction of two grades in the pay scale for a period of two years. The inquiry report found him guilty of both incompetence and misconduct, leading to the imposition of major departmental punishment.

Although the inquiry officer had initially recommended a minor fine, the Chief Justice and members of the Administrative Committee decided to impose a stricter penalty after reviewing the findings and considering the judge’s explanation during a personal hearing.

In a separate case, Civil Judge Syed Faizan Rasool was found guilty of misconduct. The inquiry report confirmed the allegations, leading to disciplinary action against him as well. He has been declared disqualified, and his punishment includes withholding of two annual increments for two years.

Officials said both judges were given an opportunity to present their defence before the final decision was made. However, after reviewing the evidence and explanations, the court upheld the findings of the inquiry officers and issued formal notifications confirming the penalties.

The actions reflect the judiciary’s commitment to accountability and maintaining standards of conduct within the lower judiciary, the notification stated.