LHC gives govt till Thursday to submit reply on Sahiwal judicial commission

LHC chief justice expresses displeasure over absence IGP Punjab from the hearing

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday sought the federal government’s response on formation of a judicial commission to probe Sahiwal tragedy till February 7.

A divisional bench, headed by LHC Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Shamim Khan, heard the petitions filed by Jalil, brother of one of the victims Khalil, and others for the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the incident.

During the proceedings, the chief justice expressed displeasure over absence of inspector general of police (IGP) Punjab in the court.

The chief justice observed that the bench had asked the IGP for conveying directions to all concerned that no such type of killing by the police officials should be repeated in future. "Where is the notification issued in light of court directions?" he inquired.

To which, the joint investigation team ( JIT) head, additional IGP Syed Ejaz Hussain Shah submitted a copy of the notification and informed the court that necessary directions had been issued to all regional police officers and others in this regard.



The JIT head also produced a report regarding investigations carried in the Sahiwal incident thus far. He submitted that investigations were progressing with the help of video footage and eye witnesses.

However, the chief justice observed, “What is the use of such footage through which the accused could not be identified?” He further questioned, “Who ordered officials for carrying out the operation.” To which, a law officer stated that the officer concerned had been suspended.

Upon this, the bench sought record and duty roaster and warned that if it was tempered then strict action will be taken against responsible.        The court was further apprised that the complainant, Jalil was summoned many times but he refused to cooperate with the investigators.

However, Jalil's counsel Barrister Ehtisham submitted that it was not a matter of identification parade. At this, the court ordered JIT head to collect all evidence produced by the relatives of the deceased and the injured besides seeking a progress report.

The court later adjourned further hearing till February 7.