- Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Aamer Farooq addresses a smear campaign targeting a judge.
- The court initiates contempt of court proceedings against those involved in the campaign.
- Legal bodies and officials respond to the controversy surrounding judicial independence and accountability.
Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Aamer Farooq has strongly condemned a malicious social media campaign targeting Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri, warning that such actions undermine the judiciary’s integrity. The smear campaign alleged the invalidity of Justice Jahangiri’s academic credentials, prompting the High Court to take swift action.
During contempt of court proceedings, Chief Justice Farooq stressed that the judiciary cannot tolerate baseless attacks on judicial officers. He highlighted the seriousness of the matter, emphasizing that accountability should not be used as a pretext for maligning judges without evidence.
The full bench of the Islamabad High Court, led by Chief Justice Farooq, initiated proceedings against individuals involved in the smear campaign. Notably absent from the bench was Justice Jahangiri, who had previously raised concerns about external interference in judicial functions.
The proceedings also saw criticism directed at government agencies for failing to curb such campaigns promptly. Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani expressed concern over the perceived inaction, suggesting complicity in the malicious campaign.
Meanwhile, the Islamabad High Court Bar Association (IHCBA) and Islamabad Bar Council (IBC) issued statements condemning the campaign and calling for respect of judicial independence. They urged state institutions to operate within their constitutional mandates and refrain from undermining judicial authority.
As tensions escalate, legal bodies have vowed to defend Justice Jahangiri’s reputation, citing his extensive legal career and contributions to the judiciary. The controversy underscores broader concerns about the independence of Pakistan’s judiciary and the role of social media in influencing public perception of legal institutions.
