The Federal Constitutional Court of Pakistan (FCCP) on Thursday directed Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to submit its response in a case concerning the provision of medical facilities to its retired employees.
A two-member bench, headed by Justice Hassan Azhar Rizvi, heard the case.
During the hearing, Justice Rizvi observed that the national flag carrier should recognise the services of its former employees, who had served the organisation during its golden era.
He remarked that the airline should not abandon its retired employees and should consider their concerns on humanitarian grounds.The judge also acknowledged that the misuse of medical facilities had caused financial losses to institutions and stressed the need for strict action against those involved in fraudulent practices.
He observed that, in the past, even perfumes had been purchased under the guise of medical expenses.
PIA’s counsel informed the court that the airline’s medical facilities system had been regulated to prevent misuse.
The counsel said the annual medical coverage limit, previously set at Rs250,000, had been increased to Rs500,000.
Justice Rizvi reiterated that PIA should adopt a compassionate approach towards its retired employees and address the matter on humanitarian grounds.The court subsequently directed the airline to submit its response and adjourned the hearing.
