# **IHC Judge Determines Displaying ‘Advocate’ on License Plates is Unlawful**
In a pivotal decision, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has ruled that the display of the term **”Advocate”** on vehicle license plates is unlawful. This ruling reaffirms that all individuals, irrespective of their profession, must comply with the law and cannot assert special privileges through unauthorized vehicle modifications.
## **Case Background**
The ruling was issued following a petition that questioned the legality of lawyers exhibiting “Advocate” on their vehicle license plates. Numerous legal practitioners in Pakistan have utilized such plates, often to signify their profession. Nevertheless, there were concerns that this practice could be exploited to circumvent traffic regulations or obtain unwarranted advantages.
The Islamabad High Court examined the issue to ascertain whether such alterations were allowable under the law.
## **Judicial Ruling**
The IHC judge concluded that:
1. **Only Official Number Plates Are Permissible** – The court underscored that all vehicles are required to display the license plates issued by the **Excise and Taxation Department**. Any unauthorized changes, including the addition of “Advocate” or other titles, are deemed unlawful.
2. **No Exclusive Privileges for Any Profession** – The ruling made it clear that no profession, including lawyers, is exempt from the law. The display of “Advocate” on license plates does not confer any legal protection or preferential treatment.
3. **Rigorous Enforcement of Traffic Regulations** – The court instructed the authorities to take stringent measures against vehicles with unauthorized license plates. Law enforcement agencies were directed to ensure adherence to the ruling.
## **Responses from Legal and Public Sectors**
### **Backing for the Ruling**
Numerous legal professionals and members of the community have praised the decision, asserting that it reinforces the **rule of law** and fosters equality. Opponents of the “Advocate” license plates contend that such displays engender a perception of **privilege and immunity**, undermining the ideals of justice.
### **Concerns from the Legal Field**
Certain attorneys have voiced apprehensions, claiming that the presence of “Advocate” on license plates aids in identifying legal professionals, particularly in situations requiring prompt access to courts or police stations. However, the court asserted that professional identification should not justify evading legal stipulations.
## **Consequences of the Ruling**
This judgment sets a benchmark for managing unauthorized license plates within Pakistan. It reinforces the principle that **all citizens stand equal before the law** and that no profession should enjoy special privileges concerning traffic laws.
### **Recommended Actions for Vehicle Owners**
– **Eliminate Unauthorized License Plates** – Lawyers and other professionals utilizing altered plates should switch to the official versions issued by the Excise and Taxation Department.
– **Adhere to Traffic Regulations** – All vehicle owners must ensure they follow traffic laws to avert fines or legal repercussions.
– **Employ Legal Identification Methods** – Lawyers can utilize other legal identification methods, such as displaying their **Bar Council stickers** inside their vehicles, instead of altering license plates.
## **Final Thoughts**
The Islamabad High Court’s ruling against featuring “Advocate” on license plates represents a move toward ensuring **equity and consistency** in traffic regulations. It conveys a clear message that no individual is above the law and that all citizens must conform to the rules established by the government. This ruling is anticipated to enhance **law enforcement** and deter the exploitation of professional titles for personal benefit.
Authorities are now expected to diligently apply the ruling, ensuring that all vehicles on the road conform to the legal standards for license plates.
