A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Tassaduq Hussain Jillani resumed the hearing regarding the Local Government Elections in cantonment areas.
During the course of proceedings, the bench observed that Local Government Elections in the Cantonment Areas had not been held since 1998 and now the reason being given by the Federal Government for delay was that the Government was contemplating to amend the Cantonment Act, 1924 and the Cantonment Local Government Election Ordinance, 2002.
Chief justice in his remarks stated that holding of Local Government Elections was mandated by the Constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan in terms of Article 140-A and as required by the Principles of Policy enshrined in the Constitution Article-32 as well.
So In the afore-referred circumstances, the apex court issued notice to Attorney General to be of assistance particularly on the following points:-
i) what would be the consequence of any further delay in holding of Local Government Elections in the Cantonment Areas in terms of the afore-referred provision?
ii) Whether the LG Elections in Cantonment Areas can be held under the existing law?
It is to mention that the question of contempt against lieutenant General (rted) Asif Yaseen Malik shall also be taken up on the next date.
Later the apex court issued notice to AG and adjourned further hearing of the case till February 20.