CJP Bans Use Of Term ‘Sahib’ For Govt Officials

On Wednesday, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa issued an order to prohibit the use of the term “sahib” for government officials during the proceedings of a criminal case. The chief justice, presiding over a three-member bench, was hearing the bail plea of a murder accused from Mardan.

CJP Isa became displeased when the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa additional advocate general (AAG) referred to a police officer as “DSP sahib.” In response, the chief justice emphasized that the officer was a DSP, not a “sahib,” and criticized his competency.

Expressing concern, CJP Isa stated that using the term “sahib” does not align with the ideals of an independent nation, as it creates an impression that government employees cannot be held accountable.

As a result, he instructed that a copy of the decision to ban the use of the word “sahib” be sent to the KP IG police, advocate general, and home department.

CJP Isa also criticized the police for their handling of the murder case, noting their perception of the Supreme Court as merely a magistrate’s court. He expressed frustration at the AAG and other officers for their inadequate presentation of the case.

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The chief justice questioned the efficiency of the police force, highlighting a case where a nine-year-old boy was murdered, and the police investigation was flawed. He criticized the lack of seriousness in investigating the case, particularly as the victim came from a poor family.

CJP Isa further criticized a police official’s appearance and questioned why traditional belts were not being used. He reprimanded the AAG for seeking case details from the DSP during the court proceedings, emphasizing the inappropriate nature of conducting office work in the courtroom.

When inquiring about evidence against the accused, the chief justice expressed dissatisfaction with the response from the DSP (investigation) Peshawar. Despite the DSP mentioning two witnesses, CJP Isa urged the inclusion of more witnesses and questioned the adequacy of evidence.

The chief justice scrutinized the handling of the case by questioning why the child’s family was not informed promptly, and statements from workshop employees were not recorded. He criticized the KP police investigators, concluding that they failed to determine responsibility for the child’s death.

Ultimately, the court granted bail to the accused after the proceedings.