This is with reference to the report that the PML(N) govt has taken upon itself to save the SC judges from power cuts. (April 27)
Indeed, this is a clear violation of the constitution. The Punjab government has been talking about the constitution. And now it is breaking the rules.
Why provide a huge amount of Rs 7.835 million for the installation of electricity generators at the residences of five Supreme Court Judges posted at Lahore?
The news is extremely shocking for the common folks who are hard hit by loadshedding across the country. Isn’t it unfair that while the poor masses are facing protracted power interruptions, the honourable judges (who are provided with many perks including free electricity) are being provided with generators at the cost of the exchequer to ensure uninterrupted power supply for their comfort?
This would be taken as pampering of the higher judiciary that is deciding the cases against the political party sitting in the federal government. The Punjab government instead of installing generators at the residences of judges should better place the same in the offices, hospitals, academic institutions, which are frequently attended by the masses, who because of power outages suffer unduly.
The law department offices particularly the lower courts throughout the province, however, may be allowed uninterrupted power supply. And the staff should be given the tasks of preparing list of cases on daily basis that are handled/settled by the magistrates. The related details may be announced through press briefing or internet.
When this practice gets successful, the figures of cases in other provinces, handled by the magistrates may also be announced to create healthy competition between the judiciary in all provinces. The people must get quick resolution of their grievances pending in the courts.
AHMED JAMAL
Karachi
