Lahore: Lahore High Court (LHC) while hearing the petitions against Punjab property ownership ordinance has halted implementation of ordinance.
Petitions filed by Abida Perveen and others came up for hearing before Chief Justice (CJ) LHC Aalia Neelum Monday.
The court while removing objections from all petitions recommended for constitution of full bench.
The court also returned the possession given under this ordinance.
Chief Secretary Punjab appeared in the court at court's orders.
CJ LHC Aalia Neelum said tell the government if some one files application against Jati Umrah then DC can give decision in his favor.
The court inquired from state counsel why the Advocate General (AG) has not come.
The counsel told the court the AG is sick, therefore, he did not come.
The CJ LHC Aalia Neelum said I am too sick . I have been advised bed rest but I am sitting here.
The CJ LHC Aalia Neelum said during the hearing of the case it seems as if Chief secretary has not read this law. This is desire of some people all the powers are given to them. Why this law has been formed. What is its motive. If the matter is pending hearing in civil court then how can revenue officer allow possession.
The CJ LHC Aalia Neelum said you abolished civil set up, civil rights. You have abolished court's supremacy. Had it been in your powers you would have suspended the constitution. If DC gives possession of your home to some one else then you will have no right to appeal.
The CJ LHC made it clear your law says high court cannot give stay on this matter. You telephone on mobile and say come otherwise your possession will remain no more with you. You are sitting here and your home will be going to some other possession.
The court inquired whosoever lodges complaint as per law will be petitioner. Are the fake registries and documents not made here.
The CJ LHC Aalia Neelum maintained if your patwari does not make fake documents then cases in such number will not be filed in civil courts. As per law you have made dispute resolution committee. You committee threatens people. Members of your committee say to people if possession is not given then police vehicle is standing outside.
The CJ LHC further remarked committee members say 10 years punishment will be given. Have you seen our civil judge. He is sitting with much silence. It is obligation of Qazi to do his job silently. The court gives decision with mind and not with heart. Your DCs make decisions as per their desire.
The CJ LHC inquired from the chief secretary do you want this all powers are given to you. Are you defending this law.
The state counsel told the court DCs have not been given powers to give possession.
The CJ LHC remarked there are several cases where DCs have given possession.
Chief Justice LHC said I am sitting here and if some one gives application this law then my home will be occupied. The patwaris whom you have given powers will join hands with Qabza groups.