ISLAMABAD: National Industrial Relations Commission (NIRC) Chairman retired Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui has resigned from his position, citing personal reasons, according to an official notice issued on Tuesday. The resignation has been submitted through the relevant ministry for onward transmission to the President.
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In his resignation letter, Justice Siddiqui requested the termination of his contract, stating that personal circumstances no longer allowed him to effectively discharge his responsibilities. He conveyed that continuing in the role had become difficult due to these reasons.
Chairman NIRC Justice (r) Shaukat Siddiqi resigns. pic.twitter.com/aO2l0ek4sC
— Zahid Gishkori (@ZahidGishkori) December 15, 2025
The notice clarified that the resignation was submitted with a one-month notice period, as required under Clause XII of the contractual agreement. This clause governs the early termination of appointments made under the relevant rules.
Justice Siddiqui was appointed as chairman of the NIRC for a three-year term. The official notification of his appointment was issued on December 2, 2024, and he formally assumed charge of the office on December 4, 2024.
The National Industrial Relations Commission plays a key role in adjudicating industrial disputes and regulating relations between employers and workers at the national level. The resignation of its chairman is expected to prompt consultations regarding an interim or permanent replacement.
Justice Siddiqui’s appointment followed a notable legal and institutional trajectory. He had earlier been removed from judicial service by the Supreme Judicial Council after a controversial speech alleging interference in judicial affairs by a former intelligence chief.
However, earlier this year, the Supreme Court set aside the Supreme Judicial Council’s decision, restoring Justice Siddiqui’s legal standing. His subsequent appointment to the NIRC was seen by observers as part of that broader legal development.
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Officials have not yet announced who will assume charge of the commission following his departure. The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development is expected to initiate the process in accordance with applicable rules.