SC overturns Justice Shaukat Siddiqui’s dismissal

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has overturned the dismissal of former judge Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui by the Supreme Judicial Council. The 5-member bench, led by Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa, concluded hearings on Siddiqui’s constitutional petitions on January 23, 2024.

The 22-page judgment, authored by Chief Justice Isa, declared Siddiqui’s removal by the Supreme Judicial Council and subsequent presidential notification null and void. Although the court ruled against his reinstatement, it determined Siddiqui should be recognized as a retired judge of the Islamabad High Court, entitled to full benefits and pension.