KARACHI: The Constitutional Bench of the Sindh High Court (SHC) has reserved its judgment on a petition challenging the legality and alleged discrimination in police appointments made under the “Shaheed Quota.”
Case Details The petition, filed by a police officer named Tariq Khan, was heard by the newly formed Constitutional Bench. The petitioner argued that the recruitment process under the quota lacks uniformity and transparency, leading to unfair advantages for certain individuals.
Legal Arguments and Proceedings Tariq Khan informed the court that while he was appointed as an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) under the Shaheed Quota in 2016, others under the same quota were later appointed directly as Inspectors and to even higher ranks. He termed this “discriminatory treatment” and demanded that he should either be promoted to a higher rank or those appointed to superior posts should be removed.
The Additional Advocate General (AAG) countered the plea by stating that, legally, even the petitioner’s own appointment might be flawed as ASI positions are typically filled through the Public Service Commission. During the proceedings, the bench observed the irony of the plea, questioning why the petitioner was risking his own job security. However, taking the procedural concerns into account, the court suggested that a committee headed by the Additional IG could be formed to investigate the matter.
Current Status After hearing arguments from both sides, the SHC Constitutional Bench reserved its verdict. The upcoming decision is expected to clarify the criteria for appointments and the legality of ranks assigned under the Shaheed Quota.
