'President's rulings on banking appeals final' | The Express Tribune
Key Takeaways
- The President of Pakistan's decision on appeals against the Banking Mohtasib's rulings is legally final and cannot be challenged in a court of law.
- Section 18 of the Federal Ombudsman Institutional Reforms Act 2013 bars judges from hearing cases against the President's rulings on these appeals.
- In FY 2024-25, the President endorsed over 500 Banking Mohtasib decisions, providing significant relief (over 100%) to victims of bank fraud.
- The Banking Mohtasib is crucial for restoring confidence in the banking sector by addressing issues like digital fraud and safeguarding citizens' rights.
- Pakistan Banks' Association President Zafar Masud emphasized the necessity of strong work ethics and controlling desires to prevent societal decline.
Justice (Retd) Irfan Qadir, Legal Adviser to the President of Pakistan, stressed the critical importance of the President's final decision on appeals against the Banking Mohtasib's rulings, noting that banks are legally barred from challenging these in court under Section 18 of the Federal Ombudsman Institutional Reforms Act 2013. Qadir mentioned that despite violations where banks have challenged these rulings, no references have been filed against the judges involved. He reported that the President endorsed over 500 Mohtasib decisions in FY 2024-25, providing over 100% relief to fraud victims concerning issues like ATM misuse and digital fraud, thereby safeguarding citizens' rights. Qadir affirmed the Mohtasib's vital role in restoring confidence in the banking sector, with most banks accepting the decisions. Pakistan Banks' Association President Zafar Masud also addressed the conference, cautioning against arrogance and emphasizing strict adherence to work ethics, drawing a personal lesson from surviving a plane crash about facing grave situations.
