Peshawar High Court directs immediate payment of police increments to officers upgraded but denied salary increases, following their service in the war against terrorism.
The Peshawar High Court (PHC) has issued directives for the immediate payment of increment amounts to police personnel who were upgraded to various pay scales without corresponding salary adjustments. Observing that officers laying down their lives in the ongoing war against terrorism should not have to seek justice through court proceedings, Chief Justice SM Atiq Shah presided over a hearing where lawyers for petitioners and the Additional Advocate General appeared before the court. Police personnel up to grade 11 across the province had been upgraded but their salaries remained unchanged. "Police officers are being martyred in the ongoing war against terrorism," remarked Chief Justice Shah, emphasizing that these individuals were performing crucial duties on the front lines, facing attacks daily. "Why should they be denied their rights? Even for legitimate claims, they must not have to seek justice through the courts."
Chief Justice Shah further stated, "Police personnel are risking their lives to protect the nation and the country. If any officer is indulging in corruption or abuse of authority, bring it to our notice." The court has directed the Advocate General's office to submit a report regarding the provision of increments to the petitioners. The directives come after an urgent hearing where lawyers for the petitioners highlighted the plight of police officers who have been upgraded but continue to face financial hardships. This decision aims to ensure that these brave individuals receive their due compensation and support, reducing the burden on them to seek justice through legal means.
With immediate effect, the court's order is expected to address the grievances of numerous police personnel across the province, providing much-needed relief and recognition for their service in the war against terrorism.
