Boost your HEC Law GAT, Judiciary, CSS, and competitive exam preparation with 100+ solved MCQs on Chapter 3: The High Courts under the Constitution of Pakistan, 1973. Practice important multiple-choice questions covering Article 192 and beyond.
Solved MCQs on Article 192 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973
For HEC LAW GAT, Civil Judge, Judicial Magistrate, ADPP, CSS & Other Competitive Exams
Article 192: Constitution of High Courts
1) Under which Article of the Constitution of Pakistan is the composition of the High Courts defined?
a) Article 190
b) Article 191
c) Article 192 ✅
d) Article 193
2) Who determines the number of Judges in a High Court?
a) The Chief Justice of Pakistan
b) The Prime Minister
c) By law or, until so determined, the President ✅
d) The Federal Cabinet
3) Which of the following statements is true about the High Courts of Sindh and Balochistan?
a) They function as a common High Court.
b) They were previously a common High Court but later separated. ✅
c) They have always been separate High Courts.
d) They operate under the direct supervision of the Supreme Court.
4) Who has the authority to establish a separate High Court for the Provinces of Balochistan and Sindh?
a) The Supreme Court of Pakistan
b) The Chief Justice of Pakistan
c) The President of Pakistan ✅
d) The Federal Law Ministry
5) What provisions can the President include in the Order when establishing separate High Courts for Balochistan and Sindh?
a) The principal seats of the two High Courts
b) Transfer of Judges from the common High Court
c) Transfer of pending cases
d) All of the above ✅
6) Can the jurisdiction of a High Court be extended beyond a Province?
a) No, High Courts can only operate within their respective Provinces.
b) Yes, but only if the Supreme Court grants approval.
c) Yes, by an Act of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament). ✅
d) No, only the President can extend jurisdiction.
7) Which body has the authority to extend the jurisdiction of a High Court to an area not forming part of a Province?
a) The Provincial Assembly
b) The Supreme Court
c) Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) ✅
d) The President through an executive order
📌 Key Takeaways:
✔ Article 192 defines the composition of High Courts in Pakistan.
✔ The President of Pakistan has the authority to determine the number of Judges in High Courts until the law is passed by Parliament.
✔ Previously, Sindh and Balochistan shared a common High Court, but they were later separated.
✔ Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) has the power to extend the jurisdiction of a High Court beyond a province.
Solved MCQs on Article 193 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973
For HEC LAW GAT, Civil Judge, Judicial Magistrate, ADPP, CSS & Other Competitive Exams
Article 193: Appointment of High Court Judges
8) Who appoints the Chief Justice and other Judges of a High Court in Pakistan?
a) The Prime Minister
b) The President in accordance with Article 175A ✅
c) The Chief Justice of Pakistan
d) The Parliament
9) What is the minimum age required for a person to be appointed as a Judge of a High Court?
a) 40 years
b) 42 years
c) 45 years ✅
d) 50 years
10) Which of the following qualifications is required for appointment as a High Court Judge?
a) Being an advocate of a High Court for at least 10 years
b) Being a member of a civil service for 10 years and serving as a District Judge for at least 3 years
c) Holding a judicial office for at least 10 years
d) Any of the above ✅
11) The term “District Judge” in Article 193 refers to:
a) A Judge of the Supreme Court
b) A Judge of a Principal Civil Court of Original Jurisdiction ✅
c) A Sessions Judge
d) A Magistrate
12) Which of the following periods can be included in computing the eligibility of a candidate for appointment as a High Court Judge?
a) Time spent as an advocate after holding a judicial office
b) Time spent in judicial office after being an advocate
c) Both (a) and (b) ✅
d) None of the above
13) What is the minimum number of years a person must have served as a District Judge to qualify for High Court appointment under Article 193(2)(b)?
a) 2 years
b) 3 years ✅
c) 5 years
d) 7 years
14) What is the total number of years of judicial office experience required for a person to be eligible for appointment as a High Court Judge?
a) 5 years
b) 7 years
c) 10 years ✅
d) 12 years
📌 Key Takeaways:
✔ Article 193 governs the appointment of High Court Judges in Pakistan.
✔ The President appoints High Court Judges under Article 175A of the Constitution.
✔ A candidate must be at least 45 years old to be eligible for appointment.
✔ A person can qualify if they have been an advocate for at least 10 years, a civil servant with 10 years of service (including 3 years as a District Judge), or have held a judicial office for 10 years.
✔ The term “District Judge” refers to a judge of a principal civil court of original jurisdiction.
Solved MCQs on Article 194 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973
For HEC LAW GAT, Civil Judge, Judicial Magistrate, ADPP, CSS & Other Competitive Exams
Article 194: Oath of Office of High Court Judges
15) Before entering upon office, before whom does the Chief Justice of a High Court take the oath?
a) The President of Pakistan
b) The Chief Justice of Pakistan
c) The Governor of the respective province ✅
d) The Prime Minister of Pakistan
16) Who administers the oath to other Judges of a High Court?
a) The President of Pakistan
b) The Chief Justice of Pakistan
c) The Governor of the respective province
d) The Chief Justice of the High Court ✅
17) According to Article 194, who administers the oath to the Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court?
a) The Governor of Punjab
b) The Governor of Islamabad
c) The President of Pakistan ✅
d) The Chief Justice of Pakistan
18) Who administers the oath to the other Judges of the Islamabad High Court?
a) The Governor of Islamabad
b) The Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court ✅
c) The President of Pakistan
d) The Chief Justice of Pakistan
19) The form of oath taken by High Court Judges is set out in which part of the Constitution?
a) First Schedule
b) Second Schedule
c) Third Schedule ✅
d) Fourth Schedule
📌 Key Takeaways:
✔ Article 194 governs the oath-taking process for High Court Judges in Pakistan.
✔ The Chief Justice of a High Court takes the oath before the Governor of the respective province.
✔ Other High Court Judges take the oath before the Chief Justice of their respective High Court.
✔ The Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court takes the oath before the President of Pakistan.
✔ Other Judges of the Islamabad High Court take the oath before the Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court.
✔ The form of oath for High Court Judges is provided in the Third Schedule of the Constitution.
Solved MCQs on Article 195 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973
For HEC LAW GAT, Civil Judge, Judicial Magistrate, ADPP, CSS & Other Competitive Exams
Article 195: Retiring Age of High Court Judges
20) According to Article 195 of the Constitution of Pakistan, until what age does a High Court Judge hold office?
a) 60 years
b) 62 years ✅
c) 65 years
d) 70 years
21) A High Court Judge can leave office before reaching the age of 62 if:
a) He resigns
b) He is removed from office in accordance with the Constitution
c) Both (a) and (b) ✅
d) None of the above
22) Which of the following officials has a higher retirement age than a High Court Judge in Pakistan?
a) A Supreme Court Judge (Retirement age: 65 years) ✅
b) A Federal Minister
c) A High Court Advocate
d) A District Judge
23) Which authority can remove a High Court Judge before attaining the retirement age of 62?
a) The Chief Justice of Pakistan
b) The President of Pakistan
c) The Supreme Judicial Council ✅
d) The Prime Minister of Pakistan
24) Can a High Court Judge continue to serve beyond the age of 62?
a) Yes, with the approval of the President
b) Yes, if the Chief Justice of Pakistan allows
c) No, unless the Constitution is amended ✅
d) Yes, if Parliament passes a resolution
📌 Key Takeaways:
✔ According to Article 195, a High Court Judge retires at the age of 62.
✔ A Judge can leave office earlier by resignation or removal as per constitutional procedures.
✔ A Supreme Court Judge has a higher retirement age of 65 years.
✔ The Supreme Judicial Council has the authority to remove a High Court Judge before retirement.
✔ A Judge cannot continue beyond 62 unless the Constitution is amended.
Solved MCQs on Article 196 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973
For HEC LAW GAT, Civil Judge, Judicial Magistrate, ADPP, CSS & Other Competitive Exams
Article 196: Acting Chief Justice of a High Court
25) Who has the authority to appoint an Acting Chief Justice of a High Court under Article 196?
a) The Chief Justice of Pakistan
b) The Prime Minister of Pakistan
c) The President of Pakistan ✅
d) The Supreme Judicial Council
26) Under which circumstances can an Acting Chief Justice of a High Court be appointed?
a) When the Chief Justice of a High Court is absent
b) When the office of the Chief Justice of a High Court is vacant
c) When the Chief Justice is unable to perform his duties due to any cause
d) All of the above ✅
27) Who can be appointed as the Acting Chief Justice of a High Court?
a) Any District Judge of the province
b) Any Advocate with at least 10 years of experience
c) One of the other Judges of the High Court or a Judge of the Supreme Court ✅
d) The Governor of the province
28) Can the President request a Supreme Court Judge to act as the Chief Justice of a High Court?
a) Yes ✅
b) No
29) Which constitutional article deals with the appointment of an Acting Chief Justice of a High Court?
a) Article 195
b) Article 196 ✅
c) Article 197
d) Article 175
📌 Key Takeaways:
✔ The President of Pakistan appoints an Acting Chief Justice of a High Court under Article 196.
✔ An Acting Chief Justice can be appointed when the sitting Chief Justice is absent, unable to perform duties, or the position is vacant.
✔ The Acting Chief Justice must be a Judge of the same High Court or a Judge of the Supreme Court.
✔ The President can request a Supreme Court Judge to serve as an Acting Chief Justice of a High Court.
✔ This provision ensures the continuous functioning of High Courts in the absence of a permanent Chief Justice.
Solved MCQs on Article 197 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973
For HEC LAW GAT, Civil Judge, Judicial Magistrate, ADPP, CSS & Other Competitive Exams
Article 197: Appointment of Additional Judges in a High Court
30) Under what circumstances can the President appoint an Additional Judge in a High Court?
a) When a High Court Judge is absent
b) When a Judge is unable to perform his duties
c) When there is a need to increase the number of Judges
d) All of the above ✅
31) Who has the authority to appoint an Additional Judge of a High Court?
a) The Chief Justice of Pakistan
b) The Prime Minister of Pakistan
c) The President of Pakistan ✅
d) The Chief Minister of the respective province
32) What is the maximum period for which an Additional Judge can be appointed under Article 197?
a) 5 years
b) 3 years
c) 2 years
d) As prescribed by law, but not exceeding a certain period ✅
33) What is the required qualification for a person to be appointed as an Additional Judge of a High Court?
a) He must be a retired Judge
b) He must have served as a Civil Judge for at least 5 years
c) He must be qualified under Article 193 for appointment as a High Court Judge ✅
d) He must be appointed by the Prime Minister
34) Which constitutional article deals with the appointment of Additional Judges in a High Court?
a) Article 195
b) Article 196
c) Article 197 ✅
d) Article 198
📌 Key Takeaways:
✔ The President of Pakistan has the authority to appoint Additional Judges to the High Court when needed.
✔ An Additional Judge is appointed in cases of increased workload, absence of a Judge, or inability of a Judge to perform duties.
✔ The qualifications for an Additional Judge are the same as for a regular High Court Judge, as per Article 193.
✔ The tenure of an Additional Judge is determined by law but cannot exceed a specified period.
✔ Article 197 specifically governs the appointment of Additional Judges in a High Court.
Solved MCQs on Article 198 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973
For HEC LAW GAT, Civil Judge, Judicial Magistrate, ADPP, CSS & Other Competitive Exams
Article 198: Seat of the High Court
35) Where is the principal seat of the Islamabad High Court located?
a) Karachi
b) Lahore
c) Islamabad ✅
d) Peshawar
36) Which High Court has Benches in Bahawalpur, Multan, and Rawalpindi?
a) Lahore High Court ✅
b) Sindh High Court
c) Peshawar High Court
d) Balochistan High Court
37) Where is the Bench of Sindh High Court located?
a) Abbottabad
b) Sukkur ✅
c) Turbat
d) Sibi
38) Which High Court has Benches in Abbottabad, Mingora, and Dera Ismail Khan?
a) Lahore High Court
b) Peshawar High Court ✅
c) Sindh High Court
d) Balochistan High Court
39) Who has the authority to determine additional Benches of a High Court?
a) The Chief Minister
b) The President
c) The Governor, on the advice of the Cabinet and in consultation with the Chief Justice ✅
d) The Chief Justice alone
40) How long must a nominated Judge serve in a Bench at minimum?
a) 6 months
b) 1 year ✅
c) 2 years
d) 5 years
41) Which High Court has a Bench in Sibi and Turbat?
a) Lahore High Court
b) Sindh High Court
c) Peshawar High Court
d) Balochistan High Court ✅
42) Which authority is responsible for making rules regarding the jurisdiction of High Court Benches?
a) Chief Justice of Pakistan
b) Prime Minister of Pakistan
c) Governor in consultation with the Chief Justice of the High Court ✅
d) Federal Minister for Law and Justice
Solved MCQs on Article 199 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973
For HEC LAW GAT, Civil Judge, Judicial Magistrate, ADPP, CSS & Other Competitive Exams
Article 199: Jurisdiction of High Court
43) Under Article 199, a High Court can issue orders if:
a) It is requested by the Prime Minister
b) There is no adequate remedy provided by law ✅
c) It is approved by the Supreme Court
d) A judge personally desires to issue an order
44) Which of the following remedies can a High Court provide under Article 199(1)(a)?
a) Compensation for damages
b) Directing a person to refrain from doing something unlawful ✅
c) Granting bail in a criminal case
d) Declaring an individual guilty of contempt of court
45) Under Article 199(1)(b), the High Court can issue an order for:
a) The dissolution of Parliament
b) Bringing a person in custody before the Court ✅
c) Appointing a new Governor for a province
d) Cancelling elections in a constituency
46) Which category of individuals is restricted from seeking relief under Article 199(3)?
a) Lawyers
b) Judges
c) Armed Forces personnel ✅
d) Politicians
47) Which of the following situations does NOT fall under the High Court’s jurisdiction as per Article 199?
a) Preventing unlawful detention
b) Challenging an act of the Armed Forces regarding service matters ✅
c) Ensuring a government official follows legal obligations
d) Enforcing Fundamental Rights
48) What is the maximum period for which an interim order under Article 199(4A) remains in effect?
a) 1 month
b) 3 months
c) 6 months ✅
d) 1 year
49) Who is the “Prescribed Law Officer” under Article 199(5) when a case affects the Federal Government?
a) Advocate-General
b) Attorney-General ✅
c) Chief Justice
d) Law Minister
50) Who is the Prescribed Law Officer in cases involving Provincial Governments under Article 199(5)?
a) Governor
b) Chief Minister
c) Advocate-General ✅
d) Speaker of the Provincial Assembly
51) Under Article 199(1)(c), a High Court can issue orders for the enforcement of:
a) Civil rights only
b) Religious rights only
c) Fundamental Rights ✅
d) Provincial autonomy
52) In what scenario must the High Court notify the prescribed law officer before issuing an interim order under Article 199(4)?
a) If it affects public work or revenue collection ✅
b) If it involves a political leader
c) If a private corporation is involved
d) If it is a matter of national security
📌 Key Takeaways:
✔ Article 199 grants the High Court the power to issue writs in cases where no adequate legal remedy is available.
✔ The High Court can issue orders preventing unlawful acts, enforcing Fundamental Rights, and ensuring legal compliance by public officials.
✔ The jurisdiction of the High Court is limited in cases involving the Armed Forces’ service matters.
✔ Interim orders issued by the High Court under Article 199(4A) remain valid for up to 6 months.
✔ The Attorney-General represents the Federal Government, while the Advocate-General represents the Provincial Governments in cases under Article 199.
✔ If an interim order affects public work or revenue collection, prior notice must be given to the prescribed law officer.
Solved MCQs on Article 200 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973
For HEC LAW GAT, Civil Judge, Judicial Magistrate, ADPP, CSS & Other Competitive Exams
Article 200: Transfer of High Court Judges
53) Under Article 200(1), who has the authority to transfer a High Court Judge from one High Court to another?
a) Chief Justice of Pakistan
b) President of Pakistan ✅
c) Prime Minister of Pakistan
d) Law Minister
54) A Judge of a High Court can be transferred to another High Court:
a) Without any consultation
b) Without his consent but with the approval of the Chief Justice of Pakistan
c) Only with his consent and consultation with the Chief Justice of Pakistan and Chief Justices of both High Courts ✅
d) Only if the Senate approves the transfer
55) According to the Explanation in Article 200(1), which of the following is NOT considered a “Judge” for transfer purposes?
a) A sitting High Court Judge
b) A Judge acting as Chief Justice of a High Court
c) The Chief Justice of a High Court ✅
d) A Supreme Court Judge acting as Chief Justice of a High Court
56) Under Article 200(2), a transferred Judge is entitled to:
a) The same salary but no additional benefits
b) A demotion in rank due to transfer
c) Additional allowances and privileges as determined by the President ✅
d) A reduction in salary as compensation for transfer
57) Under Article 200(3), a Judge of one High Court may be temporarily required to attend the sittings of another High Court:
a) With his consent and approval of the President, after consultation with the Chief Justice of Pakistan and the concerned Chief Justices ✅
b) Only if the Supreme Court orders it
c) If the Chief Minister of the province requests it
d) Automatically when the number of judges in a High Court is reduced
58) During the temporary attendance of a Judge in another High Court under Article 200(3), what powers does he exercise?
a) Limited jurisdiction in civil cases only
b) The same power and jurisdiction as a Judge of that High Court ✅
c) No judicial powers, only advisory role
d) Only appellate jurisdiction
59) Which explanation is provided under Article 200 regarding High Courts?
a) “High Court” includes a Bench of a High Court ✅
b) “High Court” means only the principal seat of the High Court
c) “High Court” does not include a Bench
d) “High Court” refers only to the Supreme Court
60) Who determines the additional allowances and privileges of a transferred Judge?
a) The Parliament
b) The President of Pakistan ✅
c) The Chief Justice of Pakistan
d) The Provincial Governor
61) Which condition is necessary for temporarily increasing the number of Judges in a High Court under Article 200(3)?
a) Approval from the Prime Minister
b) Presidential approval after consultation with the Chief Justice of Pakistan and concerned Chief Justices ✅
c) A simple majority vote in the National Assembly
d) A two-thirds majority vote in the Senate
62) Which authority is NOT involved in the transfer of High Court Judges?
a) President of Pakistan
b) Chief Justice of Pakistan
c) Chief Justices of both High Courts
d) Speaker of the National Assembly ✅
📌 Key Takeaways:
✔ The President of Pakistan has the authority to transfer High Court Judges, but only with their consent and consultation with the Chief Justice of Pakistan and the Chief Justices of both High Courts.
✔ The Chief Justice of a High Court cannot be transferred under Article 200.
✔ Transferred Judges receive additional allowances and privileges as determined by the President.
✔ Judges can be temporarily assigned to another High Court with their consent and proper consultation.
✔ Transferred Judges exercise full judicial powers in the new High Court.
✔ The Speaker of the National Assembly has no role in judicial transfers.
Solved MCQs on Article 201 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973
For HEC LAW GAT, Civil Judge, Judicial Magistrate, ADPP, CSS & Other Competitive Exams
Article 201: Decision of High Court Binding on Subordinate Courts
63) Under Article 201, the decisions of a High Court are binding on:
a) All courts in Pakistan
b) The Supreme Court of Pakistan
c) Only other High Courts
d) All courts subordinate to that High Court ✅
64) A High Court’s decision is binding on subordinate courts when it:
a) Decides a question of law
b) Enunciates a principle of law
c) Both (a) and (b) ✅
d) None of the above
65) Which Article of the Constitution is referenced in Article 201 regarding judicial precedent?
a) Article 175
b) Article 189 ✅
c) Article 190
d) Article 203
66) Which of the following courts is NOT bound by the decision of a High Court?
a) District and Sessions Court within the same province
b) A Magistrate’s Court within the High Court’s jurisdiction
c) Another High Court in a different province ✅
d) Civil Court under the High Court’s jurisdiction
67) Which of the following statements is correct regarding the binding nature of High Court decisions under Article 201?
a) They are binding only if the Supreme Court approves them
b) They are binding only if Parliament enacts a law to support them
c) They are automatically binding on all subordinate courts under the High Court’s jurisdiction ✅
d) They are merely advisory and not binding
68) Decisions of a High Court under Article 201 can be overridden by:
a) Another High Court’s decision
b) A decision of the Supreme Court under Article 189 ✅
c) A decision by a subordinate court
d) A law passed by a provincial assembly
69) A High Court decision on a principle of law is binding on subordinate courts unless:
a) The Supreme Court overrules it ✅
b) The Parliament repeals it
c) The Prime Minister rejects it
d) The Provincial Assembly amends it
70) Under the doctrine of precedent in Article 201, which of the following applies?
a) A District Court can ignore a High Court ruling if it disagrees
b) A Magistrate’s Court can overrule a High Court decision
c) Subordinate courts must follow the legal principles established by the High Court ✅
d) The Federal Shariat Court can overrule a High Court decision automatically
71) Which principle is upheld in Article 201 regarding High Court decisions?
a) Judicial independence
b) Judicial hierarchy and precedent ✅
c) Parliamentary supremacy
d) Presidential authority over courts
72) Article 201 primarily enforces which legal concept?
a) Stare decisis (doctrine of precedent) ✅
b) Judicial activism
c) Executive supremacy over the judiciary
d) Legislative supremacy
📌 Key Takeaways:
✔ High Court decisions are binding on all subordinate courts under their jurisdiction.
✔ The doctrine of precedent (stare decisis) ensures consistency in legal rulings.
✔ Another High Court in a different province is not bound by the decision of a High Court.
✔ Only the Supreme Court can override a High Court’s legal principle under Article 189.
✔ Subordinate courts must follow the legal principles laid down by their respective High Court.
Solved MCQs on Article 202 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973
For HEC LAW GAT, Civil Judge, Judicial Magistrate, ADPP, CSS & Other Competitive Exams
Article 202: Rules of Procedure
73) Under Article 202, which authority has the power to make rules regulating the practice and procedure of courts?
a) Parliament of Pakistan
b) Supreme Court of Pakistan
c) High Court ✅
d) Federal Government
74) A High Court can make rules under Article 202 for:
a) Only its own procedure
b) Only subordinate courts’ procedures
c) Both its own procedure and that of subordinate courts ✅
d) None of the above
75) The rule-making power of a High Court under Article 202 is subject to:
a) The Constitution and law ✅
b) The approval of the Provincial Assembly
c) The discretion of the Chief Minister
d) The decision of the District Judge
76) Which of the following statements is correct regarding Article 202?
a) A High Court cannot make rules for subordinate courts
b) The rules made by a High Court must be consistent with the Constitution and law ✅
c) The Federal Government has the authority to alter the rules made by a High Court
d) Only the Supreme Court can regulate the procedure of subordinate courts
77) The authority of a High Court to make procedural rules under Article 202 is:
a) Absolute and unrestricted
b) Limited by the Constitution and existing laws ✅
c) Subject to the approval of the President
d) Exercised only when permitted by the Supreme Court
78) Which of the following courts can a High Court regulate under Article 202?
a) Supreme Court
b) Subordinate courts within its jurisdiction ✅
c) International courts
d) All courts in Pakistan
79) The power granted to High Courts under Article 202 is an example of:
a) Legislative authority
b) Judicial independence ✅
c) Executive control over courts
d) Parliamentary supremacy
80) The rules made under Article 202 must be consistent with:
a) Presidential orders
b) Provincial Assembly resolutions
c) The Constitution and law ✅
d) Supreme Court circulars
81) Who is primarily responsible for drafting and implementing procedural rules under Article 202?
a) The Chief Justice of Pakistan
b) The Chief Justice of the concerned High Court ✅
c) The Governor of the Province
d) The Law Minister
82) What is the main purpose of Article 202?
a) To grant the Federal Government power over High Court procedures
b) To allow the High Court to regulate its own and subordinate courts’ procedures ✅
c) To restrict the power of the judiciary in procedural matters
d) To give the Supreme Court control over all courts in Pakistan
📌 Key Takeaways:
✔ High Courts have the authority to regulate the practice and procedure of both their own court and subordinate courts.
✔ The rule-making power of a High Court is subject to the Constitution and existing laws.
✔ This power is an essential aspect of judicial independence, ensuring that courts can function without executive interference.
✔ Only the Chief Justice of the respective High Court is responsible for drafting and implementing these procedural rules.
✔ A High Court’s procedural rules must align with the broader legal framework set by the Constitution.
Solved MCQs on Article 203 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973
For HEC LAW GAT, Civil Judge, Judicial Magistrate, ADPP, CSS & Other Competitive Exams
Article 203: High Court’s Supervision of Subordinate Courts
83) According to Article 203 of the Constitution of Pakistan, which authority supervises subordinate courts?
a) Supreme Court of Pakistan
b) High Court ✅
c) Federal Government
d) Provincial Government
84) Under Article 203, the High Court has the power to:
a) Supervise all subordinate courts within its jurisdiction ✅
b) Make laws for subordinate courts
c) Interfere in executive decisions
d) Remove judges of subordinate courts
85) Which of the following courts fall under the supervision of the High Court under Article 203?
a) Supreme Court
b) Special Tribunals
c) District and Sessions Courts ✅
d) International Courts
86) The power of supervision under Article 203 is meant to ensure:
a) Political control over subordinate courts
b) Fair and efficient administration of justice ✅
c) Executive influence on the judiciary
d) Financial control over courts
87) Which of the following statements is correct about Article 203?
a) The High Court can dismiss judges of subordinate courts directly
b) The High Court can supervise and control subordinate courts ✅
c) The Supreme Court directly supervises all courts, including subordinate courts
d) The President has control over subordinate courts
88) Under Article 203, the High Court’s supervisory authority extends to:
a) Only civil courts
b) Only criminal courts
c) All subordinate courts within its jurisdiction ✅
d) Only revenue courts
89) What is the primary objective of Article 203?
a) To provide financial support to subordinate courts
b) To allow the executive branch to manage lower courts
c) To ensure the effective administration of justice through High Court supervision ✅
d) To limit the powers of the judiciary over lower courts
90) Which judicial body has the ultimate appellate authority over subordinate courts?
a) Supreme Court
b) High Court ✅
c) Federal Shariat Court
d) Law Ministry
91) Article 203 provides High Courts with control over:
a) Supreme Court proceedings
b) Subordinate court procedures and functions ✅
c) Executive decisions regarding courts
d) Military tribunals
92) The supervisory jurisdiction of the High Court under Article 203 helps in:
a) Ensuring uniformity in judicial decisions ✅
b) Allowing direct intervention in all cases
c) Preventing appeals to the Supreme Court
d) Controlling the appointments of judges
📌 Key Takeaways:
✔ The High Court has supervisory control over all subordinate courts within its jurisdiction.
✔ This power ensures the fair and efficient administration of justice.
✔ The supervisory jurisdiction extends to both civil and criminal courts under the High Court’s control.
✔ While the Supreme Court holds the ultimate appellate authority, the High Court directly oversees the functioning and efficiency of subordinate courts.
✔ Article 203 reinforces the judicial hierarchy by ensuring lower courts adhere to the legal principles and precedents set by the High Court.
The High Courts of Pakistan – Powers, Jurisdiction & Constitutional Provisions (Comprehensive Guide for Law Exams)
Introduction
The High Courts of Pakistan play a pivotal role in the judicial system, ensuring justice, upholding the Constitution, and protecting the fundamental rights of citizens. These courts operate under Chapter 3 of the Constitution of Pakistan, 1973, which lays down their structure, powers, and jurisdiction.
This detailed guide explores the composition, functions, and legal provisions governing the High Courts, with a special focus on Article 192 to Article 203. Whether you are preparing for HEC LAW GAT, Judiciary Exams, CSS, ADPP, or any other competitive law exam, this comprehensive study will strengthen your legal knowledge and exam preparation.
Understanding the High Courts Under the Constitution of Pakistan, 1973
What is a High Court?
A High Court is the highest judicial body in a province, having appellate, supervisory, and constitutional jurisdiction. It serves as an intermediary between the lower courts and the Supreme Court of Pakistan.
The Constitution of Pakistan, 1973, defines the High Court system under Articles 192 to 203, outlining their structure, powers, and limitations.
1. Establishment & Structure of High Courts (Article 192-194)
Article 192 – Establishment of High Courts
According to the Constitution of Pakistan, a High Court is established for each province and for Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT).
Currently, Pakistan has five High Courts:
- Lahore High Court – Jurisdiction over Punjab
- Sindh High Court – Jurisdiction over Sindh
- Peshawar High Court – Jurisdiction over Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP)
- Balochistan High Court – Jurisdiction over Balochistan
- Islamabad High Court – Jurisdiction over Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT)
Each High Court may have benches in different cities to facilitate litigation and speedy justice.
Article 193 – Appointment of High Court Judges
The judges of the High Courts are appointed by the President of Pakistan, following the recommendations of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) and the Parliamentary Committee.
Eligibility Criteria for a High Court Judge:
A person must:
- Have been an advocate of a High Court for at least 10 years, or
- Have held a judicial office for at least 10 years, or
- Have served as a civil servant in the legal field for at least 10 years.
Article 194 – Oath of Office
Every High Court judge takes an oath before the Governor of the respective province, pledging to:
✅ Protect, preserve, and defend the Constitution.
✅ Perform duties without fear or favor.
2. Powers & Jurisdiction of High Courts (Article 195-201)
Article 195 – Tenure & Retirement
- The retirement age for a High Court judge is 62 years.
- A judge can resign voluntarily or be removed under Article 209 (Supreme Judicial Council – SJC) in case of misconduct.
Article 196 – Acting Chief Justice
If the Chief Justice of a High Court is absent or unable to perform duties, the President of Pakistan can appoint an acting Chief Justice.
Article 199 – Writ Jurisdiction (Power to Issue Writs)
One of the most important powers of the High Courts is their writ jurisdiction. Under Article 199, a High Court can issue five types of writs to enforce fundamental rights:
- Habeas Corpus – To ensure a person’s release from unlawful detention.
- Mandamus – To compel a public official or authority to perform their legal duty.
- Prohibition – To prevent an inferior court or tribunal from exceeding its jurisdiction.
- Certiorari – To quash an illegal decision by a lower court.
- Quo Warranto – To question the legality of a person’s authority in holding a public office.
✅ Example: If a government official is illegally dismissed, they can file a writ petition under Article 199 in the High Court.
3. Relationship of High Courts with Other Courts (Article 202-203)
Article 202 – Rules of Procedure
Each High Court can make its own rules to regulate its procedures.
Article 203 – Superintendence Over Subordinate Courts
- The High Court has control over all lower courts in its jurisdiction.
- It can inspect and discipline lower courts if necessary.
✅ Example: If a lower court judge is found guilty of misconduct, the High Court can take disciplinary action.
4. Role of High Courts in Safeguarding Fundamental Rights
High Courts serve as guardians of the Constitution and ensure:
✅ Protection of Fundamental Rights – Including freedom of speech, equality, and fair trial.
✅ Judicial Review – They can declare laws unconstitutional if they violate the Constitution.
✅ Speedy Justice – By issuing directions to government institutions.
✅ Example: If a law is passed restricting press freedom, the High Court can declare it null and void.
5. Recent Developments & Landmark Cases Related to High Courts
1. Supreme Court Bar Association v. Federation of Pakistan (2021)
This case upheld the independence of the judiciary and reaffirmed the powers of High Courts to review government actions.
2. Sindh High Court’s Ruling on Enforced Disappearances
The Sindh High Court recently directed the federal and provincial governments to take concrete steps to recover missing persons, emphasizing the importance of writ jurisdiction.
Conclusion
The High Courts of Pakistan serve as pillars of justice, ensuring the rule of law, constitutional supremacy, and protection of fundamental rights. Understanding their powers, jurisdiction, and structure is essential for law students, legal practitioners, and competitive exam aspirants.
If you are preparing for HEC LAW GAT, Judiciary Exams, ADPP, or CSS, mastering Chapter 3 of the Constitution of Pakistan, 1973, will give you an edge in exams.
✅ Keep practicing MCQs and stay updated with constitutional developments for success!
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