Islamabad High Court Summons CTO Over Petition Challenging Crackdown on Unlicensed Drivers

Islamabad (Staff Reporter):
Prominent social activist Malik Haji Muhammad Khan Afridi has filed a constitutional petition in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) challenging the recent actions of the Islamabad Traffic Police against unlicensed drivers.

During the initial hearing, the IHC issued a notice to Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Capt. (R) Hamza Humayun, directing him to appear in person before the court tomorrow.

This development came after the petitioner contended that the notification issued by the Islamabad Traffic Police exceeded its legal authority. According to Afridi, under the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 1965, driving without a license is punishable by a fine only, while arrest and vehicle impoundment are not legally sanctioned penalties.

The petition further stated that the CTO’s decision to impose a deadline for unlicensed drivers and threaten imprisonment or vehicle confiscation amounted to misuse of authority and violated Article 10-A of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to a fair trial.

Afridi urged the court to suspend the implementation of such administrative measures until approved by Parliament or the Federal Cabinet, arguing that such actions infringe upon the fundamental rights of citizens.

After hearing the initial arguments, the court sought an explanation from the CTO, asking under what legal powers such actions were initiated.

Legal experts noted that if the court rules in favor of the petitioner, the ongoing traffic police campaign could be suspended or restricted, and future enforcement measures may require statutory amendments or cabinet approval.

Public circles have welcomed the court’s intervention as a hope for relief, stating that while driving without a license is undoubtedly wrong, enforcement must remain within the bounds of law.

Meanwhile, the Islamabad Traffic Police has yet to issue an official statement on the matter.