The Supreme Court of Pakistan has raised concerns over the government’s policy of preferential hiring for the children of public servants. In a hearing related to the recruitment process at the General Post Office in Islamabad, a three-member bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice, conducted the proceedings.
During the hearing, Chief Justice inquired whether the Prime Minister has the authority to unilaterally change policies and questioned the rationale behind formulating such preferential policies. Justice Qazi Faez Isa expressed the view that it takes courage to speak up and advised writing to the Prime Minister, highlighting the flaws in the policy. He questioned why job opportunities should be limited to the children of government employees on a preferential basis and asked whether other children in Pakistan are not eligible for such opportunities.
The Additional Attorney General representing the federal government responded, stating that this policy was formulated during the tenure of the previous government. In response, Chief Justice made remarks emphasizing that the Constitution should take precedence over such policies, and if a policy contradicts the Constitution, it should be discarded. He asserted that the Constitution holds a higher position than any policy and urged discarding such policies that go against constitutional principles.
The Additional Attorney General sought directions from the court, prompting the Supreme Court to request instructions from the Attorney General. The court’s issuance of a notice indicates its intent to scrutinize the government’s hiring policies, particularly those favoring the children of public servants.
This legal development underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding constitutional principles and ensuring that government policies align with the broader principles of fairness and equality. The case also raises questions about the evolution and continuity of policies from one government to another, emphasizing the need for a consistent adherence to constitutional values in policy formulation. As the Supreme Court seeks clarifications from the Attorney General, the case may contribute to shaping the discourse around hiring practices in the public sector.
