LHC suspends operation of PMDC notifications

LAHORE - The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday suspended the operation of Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) notifications directing Afghan medical students to return to their country. Justice Khalid Ishaq passed the order while hearing petitions, filed by several Afghan students, both male and female, enrolled in various medical colleges across Punjab. The students had challenged their expulsion from the colleges on the PMDC's instructions, arguing that neither the council nor the institutions had the legal authority to remove them. During the hearing, the petitioners' counsel contended that the PMDC had exceeded its powers under the PMDC Act by issuing the notifications. He argued that the students had been condemned unheard and urged the court to set aside the notifications and suspend their operation until a final decision on the petitions. Major restrictions imposed on construction projects in City Opposing the petitions, the PMDC counsel argued that the Afghan students did not possess the required documents. He maintained that, under international practice, no person could be allowed to stay in a country without a valid visa. The PMDC counsel also described the matter as one involving national security and cited visa regulations in the United States, arguing that individuals could not remain in the country without valid visas. After hearing arguments from both sides, the court suspended the operation of the impugned notifications and directed that the students be allowed to continue their education, appear in examinations and return to their respective hostels. The court sought replies from the respondents, including the PMDC, and adjourned further proceedings until next Friday. The students had challenged PMDC notifications issued on September 1 and a similar notification issued on July 31, both directing Afghan medical students to return to their country. Nation observes Quaid-e-Azam's 78th death anniversary Tags: