Legal Case Summary

Case Details
Case ID 26a30548-ac80-4dbd-939e-6cc3de0d0c85
Body View case body.
Case Number Writ Petition No. 36987 of 2015
Decision Date
Hearing Date
Decision The Lahore High Court upheld Tariq Mahmood's constitutional petition against the Vice Chancellor of the University of the Punjab, Lahore. Justice Ayesha A. Malik observed that the University's decision to quash the Petitioner's result card lacked any substantive reasoning, thereby violating the principles of natural justice and due process. Additionally, the court highlighted that the University acted beyond the permissible three-year limitation period as stipulated in the General Regulation of the Calendar of the University of the Punjab for the year 1998. The Petitioner's result was quashed 24 years after the issuance, which the court deemed invalid. Consequently, the High Court set aside the impugned letter dated 22-08-2015, reinstating the Petitioner's result card and ensuring the University's adherence to proper procedural protocols in the future.
Summary In the landmark case of Tariq Mahmood vs. Vice Chancellor, University of the Punjab, Lahore, the Lahore High Court delivered a pivotal decision on March 2, 2021, under Writ Petition No. 36987 of 2015. The case revolved around the unilateral quashing of the Petitioner's result card by the University, a move that was contested on constitutional grounds. Represented by Arshad Malik Awan, the petitioner argued that the University's action lacked due process and violated natural justice principles. The impugned decision was executed without providing any reasons or explanations, rendering the quashing unjustified and arbitrary. Furthermore, the petitioner highlighted that the University exceeded the stipulated three-year limitation period, referencing Section 199 of the Constitution of Pakistan, 1973, which governs such actions. The defense, presented by Malik Muhammad Awais Khalid, contended that the University acted within its regulatory framework. However, the High Court scrutinized the procedural lapses, emphasizing the importance of timely and transparent decision-making within educational institutions. Justice Ayesha A. Malik underscored that once a degree is conferred, any subsequent quashing of results must adhere strictly to the prescribed timelines and procedural norms. The Court's decision to set aside the impugned letter and reinstate the Petitioner's result card serves as a significant affirmation of students' rights against arbitrary administrative actions. This case not only reinforces the accountability of educational institutions but also sets a precedent for future litigations concerning academic result disputes. By ensuring that universities adhere to constitutional mandates and uphold due process, the Lahore High Court plays a crucial role in safeguarding the academic and professional futures of students. This judgment is a testament to the judiciary's commitment to enforcing fairness and legality within the educational sector, promoting a just and equitable academic environment.
Court Lahore High Court
Entities Involved University of the Punjab, Lahore
Judges Ayesha A. Malik, Justice
Lawyers Arshad Malik Awan, Malik Muhammad Awais Khalid
Petitioners Tariq Mahmood
Respondents Vice Chancellor, University of the Punjab, Lahore and another
Citations 2022 SLD 342, 2022 MLD 155
Other Citations Not available
Laws Involved Constitution of Pakistan, 1973
Sections 199