Islamabad High Court Gives Final Deadline to Federal Government for Submitting Promotion Records

Islamabad: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has given the federal government a final opportunity to submit records related to the promotion of civil servants from Grade 21 to Grade 22.
The hearing, presided over by Justice Inam Amin Minhas, involved petitions challenging the legality of recent promotions. Petitioners include former Secretary of Information Sohail Ali Khan and other senior officers, represented by Barristers Umair Ijaz Gilani, Shoaib Shaheen, Faisal Naqvi, and other lawyers.
During the proceedings, the federal government requested additional time to present the relevant records, which drew strong criticism from the bench. Expressing dissatisfaction, Justice Minhas remarked, “Why do government lawyers not appear in such important cases?”
The court warned the federal government that this would be the final chance to submit the complete record of the promotions. Justice Minhas stated that a decision would be made at the next hearing.
Advocate Faisal Naqvi argued that the government has failed to justify why junior officers were promoted over more senior candidates. Barrister Umair Ijaz Gilani contended that only the Prime Minister is authorized to chair the board for top-level civil service appointments, as he is aware of the performance of officers across all ministries, unlike other ministers who are limited to their respective departments.
The court adjourned the hearing until June 18.