PAKISTAN
By Najeeb Naich
The Sindh High Court (SHC) has temporarily suspended the decision of the Provincial Ombudsman against Moonis Alvi and directed him to deposit Rs2.5 million as security. The relief was granted after Alvi challenged the Ombudsman’s jurisdiction and the legality of the proceedings.
Justice Faisal Kamal Alam, during the hearing, questioned the legal standing of the institution, asking, “What is the legal framework of this institution?”
Advocate Abid Zuberi, representing Moonis Alvi, argued that the matter falls under federal jurisdiction and not provincial, asserting that the Ombudsman lacked the authority to hear the complaint. He pointed out multiple flaws in the original judgment and referred to similar past cases involving the NIRC and Labour Court. Zuberi also noted that even WhatsApp messages had been presented before the Ombudsman as evidence.
The petition calls for immediate annulment of the Ombudsman’s order. The court has issued notices to all respondents, including the Provincial Ombudsman and the complainant, and has sought their replies at the next hearing.
