Zartaj Gul removed from ECL by Islamabad High Court

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has recently made a significant decision regarding the exclusion of Zartaj Gul, a prominent leader of Pakistan Tehreek Insaf (PTI), from the Exit Control List (ECL). The court's ruling came after a petition filed by Gul, who also serves as the Parliamentary Leader of PTI-backed Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), was heard by Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri of the IHC.

During the hearing, both the assistant attorney general (AAG) and Gul appeared before the court. Justice Jahangiri expressed his dissatisfaction with the situation, questioning the necessity of placing a political leader's name on the ECL for organizing a rally. He emphasized that no cases related to criminal activities had been presented against Gul, who holds a significant position in the SIC.

Osama Tariq Advocate, representing Gul, informed the court about the pending cases and highlighted that the charges were minor and bailable. The judge, expressing frustration, decided to immediately remove Gul's name from the ECL and warned against unjust listings in the future. The AAG was instructed to complete the removal process within a week and provide a detailed report.

The Islamabad High Court's decision to exclude Zartaj Gul from the ECL sheds light on the importance of ensuring fair treatment and due process in legal matters. This ruling serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in the implementation of such lists, safeguarding the rights of individuals against arbitrary actions.