The legal framework governing Pakistan’s banking dispute resolution system was brought into sharp focus during a recent conference marking the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Banking Mohtasib Pakistan. Addressing the gathering, Legal Adviser to the President of Pakistan, Justice (Retd) Irfan Qadir, emphasized that the President’s rulings on appeals filed against the decisions of the Banking Mohtasib carry finality under the law.
Justice Qadir highlighted that while banks have the legal right to appeal the Banking Mohtasib’s decisions to the President, once the President delivers a ruling, no further challenge can be made in any court of law. He referred to Section 18 of the Federal Ombudsman Institutional Reforms Act, 2013, which explicitly restricts judges from hearing cases against the President’s decisions on such appeals. “If a judge hears a case that violates this legal provision, a reference can be filed against them,” he stated, underscoring the constitutional authority of the office of the President in such matters.
He revealed that some banks have previously approached courts despite the law’s clear stance, but noted with concern that no references have been filed against judges who have entertained such cases. Stressing the importance of upholding legal sanctity, he urged for greater compliance with statutory procedures to strengthen the rule of law and protect citizens’ trust in institutional mechanisms.
According to Justice Qadir, during the fiscal year 2024–25, the President of Pakistan endorsed over 500 decisions issued by the Banking Mohtasib. These rulings collectively provided more than 100% relief to victims of financial fraud and banking malpractice. He added that the office of the Banking Mohtasib has played a crucial role in restoring public confidence in the financial sector by ensuring that ordinary citizens receive swift and fair redressal in cases involving ATM misuse, unauthorized digital transactions, e-commerce fraud, and wrongful account closures.
“The Banking Mohtasib has become a symbol of justice and institutional reliability, ensuring that every affected citizen has access to fair treatment,” he remarked, commending banks that have accepted and implemented the Mohtasib’s rulings without resistance.
Speaking at the same event, Pakistan Banks’ Association (PBA) President Zafar Masud discussed the importance of maintaining ethical standards in professional life. Reflecting on societal attitudes, he observed that negativity and mistrust have become widespread, often overshadowing genuine efforts and achievements. “When arrogance sets in, decline soon follows,” Masud cautioned, urging the banking community to stay grounded, self-aware, and ethically driven.
Recalling his near-death experience in a tragic plane crash, Masud shared how the incident profoundly changed his perspective on life and leadership. “I thought the plane would land safely, but as I looked outside and saw buildings nearing, I realized the gravity of the situation,” he said. He revealed that the experience left a lasting emotional impact, making him more fearless and reflective about the true value of humility, empathy, and resilience.
The event, themed “Work Ethics,” not only marked two decades of the Banking Mohtasib’s service but also underscored the continued evolution of Pakistan’s financial governance framework. The reaffirmation of the President’s legal authority in banking appeals serves as a strong message for institutional accountability and reinforces trust between citizens, banks, and regulatory bodies.
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