Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui Reinstated by Supreme Court, But Not Quite

In a verdict with a twist, the Supreme Court of Pakistan today ruled in favor of former Islamabad High Court judge Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui. The Court set aside the decision that led to his dismissal in 2018. However, due to the lengthy legal proceedings, Justice Siddiqui has already passed the mandatory retirement age for judges.

The five-member bench, led by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, acknowledged that Siddiqui wasn’t given a fair chance to defend himself against the allegations that led to his dismissal. The Court declared the dismissal “null and void” and cleared Siddiqui’s name.

While a victory for Siddiqui in terms of vindication, the delay in reaching a decision means he cannot be reinstated as a judge. However, the Court ensured he wouldn’t be penalized further. Justice Siddiqui will be considered a retired judge, granting him access to the perks and pension associated with that status.

This is not the first time that court has reversed a decision from the past. Earlier, the judgment of the court on the case of former prime minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was also declared ‘unfair’.