Justice Tariq Jahangiri Reportedly Disqualified in Fake Law Degree Case. A senior court has ruled that Justice Tariq Jahangiri did not hold a valid law degree at the time of his appointment, declaring his elevation as a judge illegal. The verdict has raised serious questions about judicial appointments, academic verification, and institutional oversight in Pakistan.
What the Court Decided
A two-member bench led by Chief Justice Sarfraz Dogar and Justice Azam Khan delivered the ruling after reviewing official academic records. The bench found that Jahangiri lacked a valid LLB degree when he was appointed as a judge.
The court ordered the Ministry of Law and Justice to immediately de-notify him. This means his appointment stands cancelled with immediate effect.
How the Case Came to Light
The case centered on records from University of Karachi. During the hearing, the university registrar presented original documents that showed serious irregularities in Jahangiri’s academic history.
According to the registrar, Jahangiri was caught using unfair means in an examination. He also threatened an examiner, which led the university to ban him for three years.
Despite this ban, records later showed him passing all LLB subjects in 1990. University rules clearly stated that he could not legally appear in exams until 1992. This contradiction played a key role in the court’s decision.
Fake Records and Name Changes
The court was told that Jahangiri submitted a fraudulent enrollment form. He also changed his name and his father’s name during different stages of his LLB program.
University records showed him appearing as “Tariq Jahangiri son of Muhammad Akram” in LLB Part I. In Part II, he appeared as “Tariq Mehmood son of Qazi Muhammad Akram.”
These inconsistencies raised doubts about identity and authenticity. The situation became more serious when the principal of Government Islamia College confirmed that no student with those names was ever enrolled at the college.
Enrollment Cancelled Before Court Ruling
The controversy first surfaced in July 2024 when a Karachi University letter went viral online. The letter revealed that Jahangiri’s enrollment number actually belonged to another student.
After an internal review, the university syndicate cancelled his enrollment and law degree in August 2024. This cancellation formed the basis of the court proceedings that followed.
Background of the Appointment
Justice Jahangiri was appointed to the Islamabad High Court in December 2020. In 2023, he was also among the judges who wrote a letter to the Supreme Judicial Council, alleging interference in judicial matters by intelligence agencies.
These past developments added public interest to the case but did not influence the court’s focus on academic eligibility.
Why This Decision Matters
This ruling highlights the importance of strict verification in judicial appointments. Judges hold positions of public trust, and any flaw in their credentials damages confidence in the justice system.
The case also exposes weaknesses in how academic and professional records were verified during past appointments. Legal experts believe the decision may lead to tighter scrutiny for future judicial nominations.
What Happens Next
The Ministry of Law and Justice must now formally issue the de-notification. Any judgments delivered by Jahangiri during his tenure may also face legal review, depending on future petitions.
Authorities may also examine how the appointment cleared earlier checks despite clear academic red flags.
FAQs
Why was Justice Jahangiri removed?
The court found he did not have a valid LLB degree at the time of his appointment.
Who ordered his removal?
A two-member court bench led by Chief Justice Sarfraz Dogar issued the order.
What role did Karachi University play?
The university provided original records showing fake enrollment, exam misconduct, and name changes.
When was his degree cancelled?
Karachi University cancelled his enrollment and degree in August 2024.
Will this affect other judges?
The ruling may prompt stricter checks for future judicial appointments.
Conclusion
The court’s decision to declare Justice Jahangiri’s appointment illegal sends a strong message about accountability and transparency. It reinforces the principle that no public office can stand on false credentials. The case is likely to shape future reforms in judicial vetting and academic verification across Pakistan.
