Summary "Is the federal government here only to play games?" Justice Azmat asked
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The Supreme Court of Pakistan (SCP) on Tuesday has ordered the government to explain reason behind delay in holding local body (LB) polls in the capital despite court orders and the regulations.
A three member bench headed by Justice Jawwad S Khawaja held hearing of the Islamabad LB polls case.
Justice Khawaja remarked that LB elections would be held whether through new legislation or prevailing rules. Additional Attorney General Amir Rehman said that the federal government is desirous of elections in the capital. Upon which Justice Khawaja remarked ‘supremacy of law’ stands for a meaning. He said that it is separate matter whether the elections are held on party basis or not. It is a matter of looking at rules for permission to hold polls, he added.
Justice Sheikh Azmat said that it a matter resorting to the Constitution of Pakistan however, it is not being taken seriously. “Is the federal government here only to play games?” Justice Azmat asked.
Rehman said that no notification was issued for LB elections 2002. However, he said that the Senate session would approve legislation in the matter. Justice Khawaja said that the polls could be held under 2002 rules after issuance of mere one notification.
The court said that a notification could be issued to the administration in a matter that involves people’s basic rights.
Justice Azmat further said that the court is not concerned with the time line of legislation. The hearing was adjourned after ordering the federation to inform about the next step in the matter.
