ISLAMABAD, Oct 01 (APP): The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday expressed annoyance over the failure to transfer a citizen’s vehicle for several years, remanding the matter back to the Excise and Taxation Office with directions to decide it within one month.
Justice Khadim Hussain Somro, hearing the petition filed by citizen Asadullah, directed that an officer who understands the law should handle the matter.
During the hearing, the petitioner’s counsel, the ETO Excise and Taxation, and other officials appeared before the court.
Expressing annoyance over the ETO Excise and Taxation’s failure to satisfy the court, Justice Khadim Hussain Somro remarked, “You appear to be a senior citizen. We exercise restraint. When we sit on this chair, we have to exercise a lot of control. A citizen’s vehicle issue has been pending for four years.”
He noted that it was earlier said the vehicle was tampered with. “Do not make us spell out everything. We will decide this case. Laws exist to resolve the problems. Check its registration – you collect taxes. Assign the case to an officer who reads and understands the law,” the judge said.
“You could not reply, nor could your inspector satisfy the court. Who is above you who can come and satisfy the court?” he asked.
Justice Khadim Hussain Somro inquired what the law says when a vehicle’s chassis is tampered with.
The Excise and Taxation counsel said notices were issued but the parties did not appear. The ETO Excise said the vehicle would remain with the government and cannot even be auctioned.
Justice Khadim Hussain Somro observed that the notices issued were not on record in the reply. “When someone buys a vehicle, they do not take a mechanic along to check everything. Either there should be a law, and a mechanic who checks and clears it,” he said.
Justice Khadim Hussain Somro remanded the matter back, directing the Excise Office to decide it within one month.
The court adjourned the hearing with directions.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
