LAHORE – Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Mian Saqib Nisar on Wednesday summoned a son of Governor of Punjab Rafique Rajwana in a case pertaining to fee hike in private medical colleges.
A two-member bench, headed by the Chief Justice, while hearing the suo moto case at Lahore Registry issued the summons after a woman lawyer informed the court that she was threatened by owners of the medical colleges and Punjab governor’s son for taking up the issue, reported local media.
During the hearing, Justice Saqib Nisar remarked that he will see if the court is allowed to summon Punjab governor or not.
Owners and chief executives of private medical colleges also attended the hearing of the case at Lahore Registry.
The Chief Justice observed that the apex court will set the procedure and fee structure of the medical colleges across the country, adding that the owners will have to follow the pattern. He said that he would not allow the future of capable students to be ruined.
The apex court ordered all colleges to submit a report on building structure, labs, bank accounts and other facilities of the colleges within seven days. The court said that Rs100,000 fine will be imposed on not filing the reports.
The Chief Justice remarked that colleges not meeting the required standards would be shut down and hefty penalties imposed.
The apex court also barred the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council from setting up new medical colleges until further orders.
On Tuesday, the Supreme Court ordered a ban on admissions to private medical colleges across the country.
Expressing resentment over the fee hike, the Chief Justice summoned details regarding the fee structures of private medical colleges and bank accounts details of colleges’ owners.
The Chief Justice observed that medical colleges have been established at improper places like rooftops and garages. He also sought details about building structure of these colleges.
During the hearing, the Chief Justice remarked that the court has taken up the matter related to public because of passion, not for earning fame.
Talking about the criticism on his recent visit to the Mayo Hospital, he said that he will visit the places where healthcare issues exist.
