By Muhammad Shafique Baloch, Advocate High Court
As a lawyer practicing at the Lahore High Court, I have recently seen a disturbing trend at our international airports: citizens with valid travel documents, confirmed tickets, and visas are being arbitrarily and illegally off-loaded by immigration officials. This practice is not just inconvenient; it is a blatant violation of a fundamental constitutional right.As a committed legal practitioner, I am devoted to defending the liberty and freedom of movement guaranteed under Articles 4, 9, and 15 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973.A Victory for Freedom of Movement. I recently achieved a crucial victory in one such case involving our client, Mr. Shaukat Ali (R/o Toba Tek Singh).Mr. Ali had confirmed travel plans to Bangkok, Thailand. He possessed a valid visa, an eTicket for Srilankan Airlines (UL 186), and a confirmed hotel booking for six nights at the Nanatai Suites. His travel was scheduled for November 18, 2025.Despite presenting this complete set of valid documentation, Mr. Ali was illegally off-loaded at Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore, by the Shift Incharge Immigration Departure. The actions were not based on any legal restriction but, as alleged in the petition, were taken after our client refused to pay an illegal gratification. This unlawful act resulted in severe financial loss—including the cost of his air ticket, hotel cancellation fees, and the imminent risk of his valid visa expiring.The Court’s Intervention faced with an urgent violation of his rights, we immediately filed Writ Petition No. 70123/2025 in the Lahore High Court. We sought a declaration that the action of the Immigration Department was illegal and a direction for the authorities to allow him to travel.On November 26, 2025, the Honorable Lahore High Court took swift notice of the gravity of the constitutional violation. The Court directed the Deputy Director Immigration to treat the petition as a formal representation and decide the matter strictly in accordance with law, after granting the petitioner a hearing.This judicial intervention achieved the desired outcome: Our client was allowed to proceed with his international travel.
The Core Issue. This case is a reminder that the discretion of immigration officials is not absolute. When a Pakistani citizen holds a valid passport, visa, and confirmed tickets, they cannot be prevented from exercising their constitutional right to travel abroad without a lawful, recorded reason. The arbitrary use of power not only causes immense mental and financial distress but directly undermines the rule of law.
Need Legal Assistance?If you or someone you know has been illegally off-loaded or is facing arbitrary travel restrictions despite possessing all valid documents, immediate constitutional relief may be available.Do not let unlawful action jeopardize your future, job prospects, or business opportunities.
Contact me today.
Muhammad Shafique Baloch, Advocate High Court
office No 3 basement Miccop centre1 Mozang road near AG office chowk LahoreContact:
03214960782
Dated: November 28, 2025
