The Peshawar High Court has ordered the University of Peshawar to immediately release scholarship funds to eligible students. The decision was issued in a case related to the Need-Based Scholarship Program.
The PHC directed that all pending scholarship payments must be disbursed without delay. The court said universities cannot withhold funds meant for students.
A two-member bench heard the case. It included Justice Mohammad Naeem Anwar and Justice Wiqar Ahmad. They reviewed two petitions filed by affected students.
The petitions were submitted over non-payment of scholarships, stipends, and fee exemptions. Students argued that their financial support had been stopped without justification.
In its written judgment, the PHC also instructed the Higher Education Commission to release remaining funds. These funds must be transferred according to the scholarship program rules.
The court made it clear that the University of Peshawar must not retain any amount. It ordered immediate disbursement of all received funds to eligible students.
The PHC noted that student eligibility for the scholarship was never in question. It said the program was designed to support financially weak students in public universities.
According to the court, financial difficulties cannot be used as an excuse to stop payments. The judgment emphasized that the program serves underprivileged students.
Lawyers representing the students told the court that their clients were properly selected. They said students were awarded scholarships after completing all required procedures.
They also argued that students were entitled to full tuition coverage and monthly stipends. Some students had already received initial payments before the funds were stopped.
The PHC reviewed claims that funds were transferred by the Higher Education Commission. It was stated that delays now fall under the university’s responsibility.
The Higher Education Commission confirmed that funds were already sent to the university. It said the university was responsible for further distribution.
Under the program, students receive a monthly stipend of 6,000 rupees. They also receive full tuition fee coverage for their academic programs.
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The PHC ruling is expected to ensure timely financial support for deserving students. It reinforces the importance of transparency in scholarship distribution.
