| Case ID |
0c065012-dfd0-4832-ae49-539602f3dd26 |
| Body |
View case body. Login to View |
| Case Number |
Crl. Orig. No. 314 of 2021 |
| Decision Date |
Nov 26, 2021 |
| Hearing Date |
Nov 26, 2021 |
| Decision |
The petition filed by Ms. Kulsum Khaliq under Article 204 of the Constitution of Pakistan was dismissed as not maintainable. The court emphasized that while judges are accountable under the law, the power of contempt is to be exercised sparingly and is not intended to protect a judge's dignity as an individual. The case highlighted that a retired judge, upon retirement, becomes a private citizen and thus does not attract the offence of contempt. The court found that the respondents did not make any statements against the court or its judges that could interfere with the administration of justice, leading to the dismissal of the petition. |
| Summary |
In the case of Crl. Orig. No. 314 of 2021, the Islamabad High Court addressed a petition regarding contempt of court filed by Ms. Kulsum Khaliq against the Inspector General of Police. The court reiterated the principle that judges are not above the law and are accountable for their actions. It discussed the balance between public criticism and the power of contempt, stating that while judges serve an essential role in the justice system, they are not immune to scrutiny. The court concluded that the statements made by the respondents did not constitute contempt, leading to the dismissal of the petition. This case underscores the importance of accountability in the judiciary while ensuring that valid criticism is not stifled. The decision aligns with constitutional principles and reflects on the nature of judicial authority, public respect, and the rights of litigants. The ruling is significant for discussions on the limits of contempt powers and the status of retired judges, illustrating the evolving relationship between the judiciary and public discourse. |
| Court |
Islamabad High Court
|
| Entities Involved |
Not available
|
| Judges |
ATHAR MINALLAH, C.J.,
KULSUM KHALIQ
|
| Lawyers |
Ms. Kulsum Khaliq
|
| Petitioners |
Ms. Kulsum Khaliq
|
| Respondents |
INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE
|
| Citations |
2022 SLD 1967,
2022 PLJ 655
|
| Other Citations |
[1936] 1 All ER 704,
PLD 2020 Islamabad 109
|
| Laws Involved |
Constitution of Pakistan, 1973,
Contempt of Court Ordinance, 2003
|
| Sections |
204,
3,
4
|