The Sindh High Court (SHC) issued a stay order, suspending Karachi University’s decision to cancel the law degree of Islamabad High Court Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri.
Justice Muhammad Iqbal Kalhoro, presiding over the case, barred further action until the court resolves the matter. This follows a petition by Justice Jahangiri challenging the university’s Unfair Means Committee (UMC) and Syndicate.
During the hearing, Karachi University Registrar Prof. Imran Siddiqui requested additional time to respond, noting that the university had received the court notice just two days prior. Justice Jahangiri’s counsel agreed but urged an interim suspension of the cancellation order. Justice Kalhoro questioned the process, asking, “Did the university notify Justice Jahangiri before revoking his degree?” He added, “If the order is overturned later, who compensates for the damage to his career?”
Read: Supreme Court Suspends IHC Order Barring Justice Jahangiri from Judicial Work
The judge emphasised fair hearings, stating, “Even after 30 or 35 years, due process matters. A decision without hearing all parties lacks value.” He raised concerns about potential personal motives behind the action. Consequently, the court adjourned the case until November 20, 2025.
The ruling protects Justice Jahangiri’s professional standing temporarily. It also highlights the importance of due process in academic and judicial disputes. For instance, revoking a degree without proper notification risks reputational harm. Moreover, the case highlights the importance of transparency in university governance.
As the legal battle unfolds, it could set a precedent for handling similar disputes. Therefore, stakeholders await the November hearing for clarity.
