LAHORE(National Times)- Lahore High Court Chief Justice Aalia Neelum on Monday expressed displeasure over the conduct of Gujranwala police for registering a case against a citizen who approached the court in a land possession dispute involving alleged police interference.

The chief justice remarked that registration of cases against people seeking legal remedy from courts would not be tolerated under any circumstances.

She was hearing a petition filed by a citizen, Sharafat Ali, while Regional Police Officer (RPO) of Gujranwala Khurram Shahzad, City Police Officer (CPO) Gujranwala Dr Ghias Gul and other officials appeared before the court.

During the hearing, the chief justice observed that the purpose of the court was not to punish anyone without reason but to ensure justice in accordance with law.

The petitioner argued that despite being a leaseholder and despite a court stay order issued in his favour, police were interfering in the matter.

He said that after the high court issued an order, police registered an FIR against him.

Chief Justice Neelum questioned the CPO about the dates of the court order and registration of the FIR.

The CPO informed the court that the order was issued on June 17, while the FIR was registered on June 18.

Expressing her displeasure, the chief justice asked why the case was not registered before the issuance of the stay order if there was a legal ground for it.

She remarked that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) could be summoned in such circumstances.

The CPO argued that the SHO concerned was not aware of the court’s order.

However, the chief justice clarified that registering a case against a person who had sought protection from the court was unacceptable.

She directed the CPO to review the matter afresh, hear all parties and decide the issue on merit.

The CJ directed the CPO to come up with an inquiry report on July 6.