Lahore High Court Chief Justice Malik Shahzad Ahmad Khan has summoned Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Usman Anwar and other officials following serious allegations of harassment and intimidation made by Muhammad Abbas, the presiding judge of an anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Sargodha.
The LHC registrar’s office received a special report from Judge Abbas on June 7, detailing a series of troubling incidents since he assumed his new role on May 25. According to the report, Judge Abbas refused a meeting request from an unidentified authority claiming to be from the ISI on his first day at the ATC in Sargodha. Following this refusal, the judge reported various forms of harassment aimed at him and his family.
Among the reported incidents, Judge Abbas highlighted damage to the gas meter at his previous residence, an unusually high electricity bill that he suspects might have been manipulated by the intelligence agency, and unknown individuals harassing his relatives for personal information. Furthermore, on June 6, a firing incident damaged a transformer outside the main gate of the ATC.
The judge’s concerns escalated on June 10 when all access roads to his court were blocked on the pretext of a security threat, preventing litigants and under-trial prisoners from attending the court. The local DSP could not provide a satisfactory explanation for the blockade.
Chief Justice Khan, recognizing the gravity of the allegations and the reputable standing of Judge Abbas, decided to treat the complaint as a contempt petition. In his order, Chief Justice Khan emphasized the seriousness of the threats and harassment reported by the judicial officer and the need for an immediate investigation.
As a result, Chief Justice Khan has summoned Punjab IGP Usman Anwar, along with the regional police officer and district police officer, to appear in person before the court on Thursday. This summons underscores the judiciary’s commitment to addressing threats against judicial officers and ensuring their safety and integrity.
The developments have raised significant concerns about the treatment of judicial officers and the potential involvement of intelligence and law enforcement agencies in acts of intimidation.