Jamshed Dasti Jailed 7 Years in Fake Degree Case

A sessions court in Multan sentenced former Member of National Assembly (MNA) Jamshed Dasti to seven years in prison. The court convicted him in a fake degree case on Monday. This decision follows long-standing allegations against Dasti for forging academic certificates. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had already disqualified him in July 2022 for similar charges. Despite the disqualification, Dasti contested and won the 2024 general elections from Muzaffargarh.

Dasti has faced accusations of forging educational documents for more than 20 years. Records show he obtained at least seven fake or invalid certificates. For example, in 2002, his matriculation certificate was declared invalid. Then in 2005, authorities found his intermediate certificate fake as well. These cases cast serious doubts on his academic qualifications and political legitimacy.

In 2008, Dasti submitted a Shahadat-ul-Aaliya religious certificate to contest elections. The Supreme Court took the case seriously and tested his religious knowledge. Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry personally questioned him. Dasti failed to answer basic questions during the hearing. As a result, he was forced to resign from his position at that time.

Even after these setbacks, Dasti remained active in politics and won the 2024 elections. However, the recent court ruling shows that justice has caught up with him. The verdict may affect his political future and credibility. It also sends a strong message against fake credentials in politics.

Overall, the court’s decision highlights the importance of honesty in public service. It reflects ongoing efforts to clean up Pakistan’s political system. Many hope this ruling will discourage others from using fake degrees. The case also stresses the need for strict verification by election authorities.