IHC Lifts Lifetime Ban on Ex-Pakistan Boxing Chief
IHC Lifts Lifetime Ban on Ex-Pakistan Boxing Chief: ISLAMABAD: In a significant legal development, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has suspended the lifetime ban and Rs1 million fine imposed on former Pakistan Boxing Federation (PBF) president Khalid Mahmood and secretary Retired Colonel Nasir Ijaz Tung by the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB). The decision came in response to allegations of theft during a boxing tour in Italy earlier this year.
Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir, while announcing the verdict, ruled that the PSB’s punitive measures would remain suspended until the Board’s adjudication panel re-examines the case and issues a final decision. The court emphasized the need for transparent proceedings and instructed the panel to ensure a fair trial, free from any influence of prior findings.
Background of the Case
The controversy stems from an incident on March 3, 2024, during a boxing tournament in Italy. British-Pakistani boxer Laura Akram and her coach reported that their money and passports were stolen from their hotel room. The petitioners claimed that Pakistani boxer Zohaib Rasheed allegedly took the hotel key and fled with the valuables.
The Italian police are currently investigating the matter, but the PSB took swift action, imposing a lifetime ban and a heavy fine on Mahmood and Tung, holding them responsible for the alleged misconduct. The two officials challenged the decision in the Islamabad High Court, arguing that they were not given a fair hearing and that the PSB’s decision was premature.
Court’s Decision and Future Proceedings
The IHC’s ruling does not absolve the former PBF officials of the allegations but temporarily suspends the penalties until the PSB’s adjudication panel conducts a fresh hearing. The court stressed that:
- The PSB must ensure due process and a fair trial.
- The previous findings should not influence the new proceedings.
- The final decision must strictly comply with the law.
This interim relief allows Mahmood and Tung to resume their professional activities until a final verdict is reached.
Reactions from Stakeholders
Pakistan Boxing Federation (PBF)
The PBF has welcomed the court’s decision, stating that the initial ban was unjust and lacked proper investigation. They argue that the officials should not be held accountable for an individual boxer’s alleged misconduct.
Pakistan Sports Board (PSB)
The PSB has yet to issue an official statement but is expected to reconvene the adjudication panel soon to review the case as per the court’s directives.
Boxing Community
Many within Pakistan’s boxing circles believe the case highlights administrative flaws in sports governance. Some argue that hasty penalties without thorough investigations damage the credibility of sports bodies.
What’s Next?
- The PSB panel will re-examine the case.
- Italian police investigations are ongoing.
- A final decision from the PSB will determine whether the ban and fine are reinstated or overturned.
FAQs
1. Why was the lifetime ban imposed on Khalid Mahmood and Nasir Tung?
The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) imposed a lifetime ban and Rs1 million fine on the former PBF officials over allegations of theft during a boxing tour in Italy. The board held them responsible for the misconduct of a boxer, Zohaib Rasheed, who allegedly stole money and passports from a fellow athlete.
2. What does the Islamabad High Court’s suspension mean?
The IHC has temporarily suspended the ban and fine, meaning Mahmood and Tung can resume their professional roles until the PSB’s adjudication panel re-evaluates the case. The court emphasized that the PSB must conduct a fair and transparent hearing before issuing a final verdict.
3. Is the Italian police investigation still ongoing?
Yes, Italian authorities are still investigating the theft allegations. Their findings could influence the PSB’s final decision, depending on whether they confirm or refute the claims against Zohaib Rasheed.
Conclusion
The Islamabad High Court’s intervention has provided temporary relief to the former PBF officials, but the case remains unresolved. The PSB’s next steps will be crucial in determining whether the ban is reinstated or permanently lifted. This case also raises broader questions about accountability in sports administration and the need for due process in disciplinary actions.
