Justice Babar Sattar's Resignation Rumors Debunked

In recent days, social media platforms in Pakistan have been flooded with alarming claims regarding Justice Babar Sattar of the Islamabad High Court (IHC). Rumors have circulated that he has resigned from his position and is currently in the United States. These assertions have sparked widespread concern and confusion among the public, prompting a need for clarification.

The origin of these rumors can be traced back to a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, on October 1. A user claimed, "Big news! The American citizen judge, Justice Babar Sattar of the Islamabad High Court, used the excuse of a holiday to travel to the US for two months, from where he has submitted his resignation. He has no plans to return to Pakistan." This post quickly gained traction, amassing over 84,000 views and more than 690 reposts, which only fueled the fire of misinformation.

However, court officials have firmly denied these claims. According to Sardar Tahir Sabir, the registrar of the Islamabad High Court, "There is nothing like this." He confirmed that Justice Sattar is still in Pakistan and has not resigned. Furthermore, Asif Iqbal, the public relations officer at the IHC, stated that no resignation has been received and clarified that Justice Sattar is currently on a one-month leave, as per an official notification dated September 26, which allows him to be away from September 30 to October 29.

Adding to the clarification, a journalist who regularly covers the Islamabad High Court confirmed that the rumors surrounding Justice Sattar's resignation are baseless. He stated, "The news about his resignation is false," emphasizing that the judge remains in Pakistan.

Moreover, the claims suggesting that Justice Babar Sattar holds American citizenship have also been debunked. A press release from the Islamabad High Court in April made it clear that the judge has "never held any nationality other than that of Pakistan." This statement further reinforces the fact that the rumors circulating on social media are not only misleading but entirely unfounded.

It is crucial for the public to approach information shared on social media with a critical eye. Misinformation can spread rapidly, leading to unnecessary panic and confusion. By relying on verified sources and official statements, individuals can better navigate the complexities of news and ensure they are informed by facts rather than rumors. In an age where information is at our fingertips, discernment is key to understanding the truth.