Islamabad:
In a rare and dramatic development in Pakistan’s judicial history, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has removed Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri from office after a court ruling declared his law degree fake and invalid, rendering his appointment unconstitutional.
A division bench of the Islamabad High Court concluded that Justice Jahangiri did not possess a valid LLB degree at the time of his appointment and confirmation, a mandatory requirement under the Constitution. The court ruled that his elevation to the bench was “without lawful authority”, ordering his immediate removal.
Following the verdict, the Ministry of Law and Justice formally de-notified Justice Jahangiri after approval from the President of Pakistan, bringing an abrupt end to his tenure as a high court judge. Soon after, his name and photograph were removed from the official IHC website, and court rosters were updated.
The judgment has sent shockwaves through legal and political circles, reigniting debate over judicial accountability, transparency, and the verification process for high-profile appointments. Legal experts say the ruling reinforces a clear message: no office is above constitutional requirements, regardless of rank or position.
The case stemmed from petitions challenging the authenticity of Justice Jahangiri’s academic credentials. After reviewing the evidence, the court found that he failed to prove the validity of his degree, leading to one of the most significant removals in recent judicial history.
Observers view the decision as a landmark moment, underscoring the principle that integrity and eligibility are non-negotiable in the justice system. As discussions continue nationwide, the ruling is being seen as a stern reminder that accountability applies to everyone — even those on the bench.
