LHC expresses dissatisfaction over IG Punjab’s report in police character certificate case

LAHORE, Jun 29 (APP): The Lahore High Court on Monday expressed dissatisfaction with a report submitted by Inspector General (IG) Punjab Abdul Kareem in a case concerning the inclusion of criminal case details in police character certificates.

Justice Abher Gul Khan heard the contempt petition filed by the petitioner, Mubashir, against non-implementation of court orders.

During the hearing, the court also objected to the existing format of the police character certificate, observing that its earlier directions had not been implemented in letter and spirit. The court noted that despite clear orders issued a year ago, compliance had yet to be ensured, prompting the filing of contempt of court petitions.

The court remarked that the report submitted in response to the court’s queries was inadequate and observed that the IG Punjab appeared to have been misled by his subordinate officers. The court directed the Punjab Police to prepare two separate formats for police character certificates—one for individuals who have been convicted and another for those who have been acquitted.

The IG Punjab informed the court that the character certificate system was fully automated and sought additional time to implement the court’s directions. When asked how much time was required, he requested one week’s time for compliance.

The court directed the IG Punjab to submit both revised formats before the court and ensure that all District Police Officers (DPOs) are informed about the new procedure. It further ordered that full compliance with its earlier directions be ensured before the next hearing.

The hearing was subsequently adjourned until July 13.