The Sindh High Court (SHC) has declined an urgent hearing request against the provincial government’s implementation of newly introduced Ajrak-themed vehicle and motorcycle number plates.
The petition was filed by social activist Faizan Hussain, who argued that the new number plate policy is placing a financial burden on low-income individuals. He pointed out that under a recent government notification, motorcycles lacking the new plates are being fined and, in some instances, impounded.
During the hearing, Justice Zulfiqar Sangi stated that the issue—mainly involving a relatively minor cost—did not merit immediate attention during the court’s recess, especially with more critical cases pending. The judge instructed that the case be reviewed after the court’s vacation period.
Representing the petitioner, Advocate Mushtaq Tanoli argued that thousands of motorcyclists are being penalized daily, making the matter a pressing public concern. He further noted that many citizens had already paid for previously issued, officially approved number plates and should not be expected to bear the cost of replacements.
The petition also demands that the government provide the new plates free of charge and suspend the ongoing fines and impoundments until a final decision is made.
The petition lists the Secretary of Excise and Taxation, the Motor Vehicle Registration Wing, and the DIG Traffic as respondents, and calls for the suspension of penalties and enforcement actions related to the new Ajrak number plates until the court rules on the matter.