ISLAMABAD; The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has reserved its judgment on a petition challenging the appointment of the Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
Justice Babar Sattar, in a written order issued on Wednesday, directed the Chairman PTA, the Additional Attorney General (AAG), and other respondents to submit their replies by September 8.
The court observed that any respondent wishing to file a written reply may do so by the given date, while the federal government may also place on record the complete process through which the chairman was appointed.
The judge noted that detailed arguments of the counsels for the respondents had already been heard, and that an additional opportunity was granted to provide assistance to the court in light of recent amendments expanding the jurisdiction of the High Court.
During the proceedings, the Assistant Attorney General informed the court that the AAG was currently on leave and sought additional time on behalf of the federation to file its reply. Similarly, counsel for the PTA requested adjournment, citing his unavailability due to being abroad.
The petition, filed earlier this year, challenges the legality and transparency of the appointment of the current PTA Chairman.
The petitioner has argued that the selection process was in violation of merit and relevant legal provisions, alleging that the appointment was politically motivated and did not follow due process.
The case has drawn attention as it raises questions over the government’s procedure in making high-profile regulatory appointments in the telecom sector, a field seen as critical for Pakistan’s digital governance and economic future.
The court has reserved its judgment, which is expected after replies are submitted by September 8.
