Summary A five-member bench headed by Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar heard the case.
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The Supreme Court on Friday issued notices to Punjab and federal government in case pertaining to provincial autonomy under 18th amendment.
A five-member bench headed by Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar heard the case and rejected senator Raza Rabbani’s plea to form full court over the matter.
Arguing in court, Rabbani said, “The court had raised several questions yesterday. It would be appropriate if a full court is formed in the matter.”
Justice Ijaz-ul-Ahsan remarked that the court is not reviewing 18th amendment but dissolution of few hospitals under it.
The case is related to a controversy between the federal and Sindh governments over the ownership of three major hospitals in Karachi namely the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical College (JPMC), National Institute of Cardio Vascular Diseases (NICVD) and National Institute of Child Health (NICH).
Sindh government says that the subject of health has been handed over to provinces under the 18th Amendment therefore; the management of the hospitals should also stay with them.
“19th amendment was introduced for explanation after 18th amendment. I respect the observation of court and will continue arguments in case,” said Rabbani.
Chief Justice questioned that federal government won’t come ahead if the provinces refrain from betterment of health department.
Rabbani replied that if the management of hospitals is not transferred to provinces then article of constitution will lose its worth.
“The court has declared 18th amendment constitutional and accurate. Before us, the query is not about small and big province but to elucidate the legal point,” asserted CJP.
The court while concluding the remarks adjourned the hearing until Monday.
