Tragedy: MA degree holder working as a sweeper; FCCP directs KP govt to provide alternative employment

ISLAMABAD, Jul 16 (APP):The Federal Constitutional Court on Thursday dismissed an appeal filed against the employment of an MA-qualified individual as a sweeper in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), upholding the decision of the Peshawar High Court.

The bench further remarked that the provincial government should provide the petitioner with a more suitable position.

A three-member bench, headed by Justice Hassan Azhar Rizvi, heard the case. During the proceedings, Justice Rizvi expressed astonishment, asking, “Is an MA graduate now expected to work as a sweeper?”

He further noted that it would be inappropriate to terminate the individual’s employment after ten years of service, suggesting instead that the provincial government reassign him to a more appropriate role.

When the Additional Advocate General informed the court that there were currently no vacancies for sweepers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Justice Rizvi retorted, “Is Khyber Pakhtunkhwa so clean that there is no need for a sweeper?” He added sarcastically that he had heard such claims about other provinces.

Expressing severe displeasure over the situation, the court remarked that the system deserved “commendation” for making an MA graduate perform the duties of a sweeper, calling the entire situation a “tragedy.”

The District Education Officer, who appeared before the court, confirmed that the employee’s duties included sweeping and cleaning. Upon hearing this, Justice Rizvi remarked, “Does no one feel ashamed that he is made to sweep?”

Consequently, the Federal Constitutional Court dismissed the provincial government’s appeal and directed them to facilitate the employee with an alternative position commensurate with his qualifications.