State needs to change its mindset as court verdicts alone are not enough to end such practices, says CJP Isa.
Level-playing field: SC issues notices to Punjab officials. The Supreme Court of Pakistan has taken action on the petition filed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), issuing notices to top officials in Punjab, including the Inspector General of Police (IGP), chief secretary, and advocate general. The PTI had approached the court seeking a level-playing field ahead of the general elections scheduled for February 8.
A three-member bench, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa and comprising Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Musrat Hilali, heard the case. The proceedings were broadcast live on the Supreme Court’s website and YouTube channel. The court adjourned the hearing until January 8.
In the previous hearing on December 22, the Supreme Court directed the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to address the concerns raised by the PTI regarding a level-playing field. The ECP representatives subsequently met with a PTI delegation and assured them of addressing grievances in the run-up to the national vote.
Despite this, the PTI filed another petition on December 26, seeking contempt of court proceedings against the ECP, alleging a failure to ensure a level-playing field. The party expressed dissatisfaction with the ECP’s failure to implement the court’s directions, resulting in continued harassment and arrests of PTI candidates.
The recent application submitted by the PTI includes evidence of the alleged denial of a level-playing field, citing the rejection of nomination papers for 668 PTI candidates and incidents of nomination papers’ snatching. The party requested the court to ensure that its candidates are allowed to hold rallies and political gatherings.
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During today’s hearing, PTI lawyer Latif Khosa presented arguments on behalf of Advocate Shoaib Shaheen. The Chief Justice advised against making political speeches in the courtroom, emphasizing the importance of focusing on constitutional and legal matters. The court issued notices to top Punjab officials and adjourned the hearing.
The PTI’s pursuit of a fair electoral process reflects its commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring equal opportunities for all political parties in the upcoming elections. The Supreme Court’s active involvement underscores its dedication to overseeing transparent and unbiased electoral proceedings.
