CJP Nisar wants former PTV chief Ata ul Haq Qasmi to return Rs270 million

ISLAMABAD - Chief Justice of Pakistan, Mian Saqib Nisar, expressed on Friday that the case against former chairman Pakistan Television, Ata ul Haq Qasmi would be shelved provided he submits Rs 270 million in the national exchequer.

During the hearing of the case regarding the expenses incurred on the 'publicity' of the former PTV bigwig, the top judge also hinted at the possibility of taking back money from former information minister Pervaiz Rasheed.

'The money could also be recovered from Nawaz Sharif, who was the prime minister at the time of Qasmi's appointment,' observed the judge and added that the money would be invested for construction of dams in the country.

Top court reserves verdict on Attaul Haq Qasmi's appointment as PTV chief

The top judge also ruled out the possibility of a jail term for the literary giant, observing that it would be fruitless to send 80-year-old Qasmi behind bars.

The case was heard by a three-member bench of the Supreme Court (SC) regarding the illegal appointment of Qasmi and millions paid to him in the form of various allowances.

A notice to the former information minister was also issued by the apex court and explanation was sought regarding Qasmi’s appointment.