The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued a clear directive to the district administration, urging them to refrain from causing any undue harassment to students in connection with the installation of M-Tags on motorcycles. This development came during a hearing on Monday, where Chief Justice Sardar Mohammad Sarfraz Dogar expressed concern over the challenges faced by students due to the new security protocol.
During the proceedings, the Chief Justice reflected on his own experiences as a student, highlighting the importance of easing burdens on young learners. He questioned the necessity of imposing M-Tags on motorcycles, emphasizing the need to balance security measures with the convenience of the public. The court sought a detailed response from the state’s legal representatives, instructing the state lawyer to submit a comprehensive reply by the next scheduled hearing.
State lawyer Abdul Rehman provided context for the government’s decision, citing the tragic Kutchery blast as a catalyst for heightened security precautions. He detailed that the attack resulted in the loss of 12 lives and left 36 individuals seriously injured. The motorcycle involved in the blast had been used by the attacker to gain access to the Kutchery area, which prompted authorities to implement stricter security measures, including the mandatory installation of M-Tags on motorcycles.
While acknowledging the gravity of the security concerns, Chief Justice Dogar stressed the importance of minimizing inconvenience for the citizens, especially students who rely on motorcycles for their daily commute. He urged the district government to adopt a more compassionate approach, ensuring that security protocols do not translate into harassment or excessive difficulties for the public. The court’s remarks underscored the delicate balance between safeguarding public safety and protecting individual freedoms.
The hearing was subsequently adjourned, with the next session scheduled for April 6, 2026. This pause allows time for the state to prepare its formal response and for the court to consider the broader implications of the M-Tag policy on citizens’ rights and security. The case continues to attract attention as it touches upon critical issues of public safety, administrative conduct, and the rights of students in Islamabad.
