ON July 23 the Islamabad High Court judge, Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui, declared the amnesty scheme illegal and ordered seizure of over 51,000 vehicles, as well as a criminal proceeding against former FBR chairman Ali Arshad Hakeem.

But the honourable judge should also take into consideration the aftereffects of his judgments.

First, the smuggled car, which might be used in terrorist activities got legalised and registered through this scheme.

Second, the government receives over 16 billion of revenue which would be not possible without the said amnesty scheme.

Finally, many of the poor people got registered commercial vehicles, which would serve as a source of their livelihood.

S. FAHAD IFTIKHAR
Peshawar