SC rejects govt's plea for appointment of new Islamabad IGP

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court on Thursday rejected a federal government's plea regarding the appointment of a new Islamabad inspector general of police (IGP).

A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Mian Saqib Nisar heard Attorney General of Pakistan (AGP) Khalid Jawed’s plea on the appointment of an IGP.

Earlier today, the AGP moved the top court and requested that "in light of the current security situation of the country, permission be granted for the appointment of a new IGP".

However, the chief justice said, “Instead of appointing a new IGP, give an additional charge to someone else.” Justice Nisar asked, "Had we not suspended the decision of the IGP's appointment, what would you have done?"

Speaking about the ongoing protests following the top court's verdict acquitting Asia Bibi, a Christian woman sentenced to death over blasphemy allegations, Justice Nisar said, “The state should fulfil its responsibility to maintain peace in the country like the prime minister said last night.”

"We are ready to sacrifice our lives for the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him)" Justice Nisar added. “But if there is no proof against someone then how can we punish them?” the chief justice remarked.

The top judge further said, “Blasphemy is not acceptable to anyone. No one’s faith is any less and we do not love the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) any less than anyone else but we are not just the qazis (judges) of Muslims.”

Referring to the 56-page judgment on Asia Bibi case, Justice Nisar said, "We started the judgment with the Kalma and constantly referred to the Holy Quran."

“Love does not mean that even if a case cannot be formed we make one. We uphold the Finality of the Prophethood and without it our faith is not complete. We have judges on our benches who are always reciting the Durood Sharif. We published the verdict in Urdu as well so the nation can read it,” he added.

IGP Muhammad was transferred on October 27 after he allegedly refused to take action on a complaint by Federal Minister Azam Swati’s son regarding an incident at their farmhouse. The minister said he had tried to reach the police officer several times over the incident and after failing to do so messaged Prime Minister Imran Khan. The Supreme Court had taken suo motu notice of the matter and suspended the notification regarding the Islamabad IGP's transfer.

Jan Muhammad resumes charge

Meanwhile, Jan Muhammad, who returned from Malaysia this morning, resumed charge as Islamabad IGP.

Muhammad reviewed the security situation in the federal capital following the protests. 

The Islamabad IGP, who was on leave to attend a course in Kuala Lumpur, was asked by the Interior Ministry to return to the country immediately.