LEGAL

LHC Forms Full Bench for Punjab Local Govt Election Petitions

Lahore High Court forms a full bench to hear 47 petitions against the delay in Punjab’s local govt elections. The hearing, led by CJ Justice Alia Neelam, is set for March 25.
2025-03-22
LHC Forms Full Bench for Punjab Local Govt Election Petitions

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has constituted a three-member full bench to hear multiple petitions filed against the delay in local government elections in Punjab.

Bench Composition & Hearing Date

The full bench will be headed by Chief Justice Alia Neelam, with Justice Farooq Haider and Justice Tariq Nadeem as members. The court has scheduled the hearing for March 25.

Petitions Filed Over Delay

A total of 47 petitions have been filed by various stakeholders, including:

  • Former Lahore Mayor Mubashir Javed
  • Jamaat-e-Islami Lahore Ameer Ziauddin Ansari
  • Other political and social representatives

Key Arguments in the Petitions

The petitioners argue that:
The delay in local government elections is negatively impacting local development and governance.
The lack of elected representatives is affecting public accountability.
The court should order the federal and provincial governments to conduct the elections without further delay.

Government’s Role & Expected Response

The Punjab government has not yet issued a statement on the matter. However, if the LHC directs the authorities to proceed with the elections, it could lead to significant political developments in the province.

Legal & Political Implications

The local government system is crucial for addressing grassroots issues, and any ruling by the LHC full bench could set a precedent for future governance in Punjab.