Bill to regulate Constitutional Benches Sails Through Sindh Assembly
Bill to regulate Constitutional Benches has successfully passed through the Sindh Assembly, despite significant protest from opposition members of Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) and Jamaat-i-Islami (JI). The legislation, which replaces an earlier ordinance, empowers Constitutional Benches (CBs) of the Sindh High Court with exclusive jurisdiction over constitutional matters outlined in Article 199 of the Constitution.
This bill, passed by a majority vote, stems from the requirements of the 27th Amendment. It amends previous stipulations, now stating that once a judge is nominated to a CB, they “shall not recuse, refuse, or decline to sit on such bench,” with provisions for withdrawal under “compelling reasons” subject to Judicial Commission of Pakistan approval. SindhNews.com reported extensively on earlier debates.
During proceedings, Deputy Speaker Anthony Naveed denied JI’s Muhammad Farooq a debate, leading to protest. PTI members also voiced opposition, while Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) members remained silent.
Law Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar criticized the opposition’s protest as “unwarranted.” He highlighted that the bill had been thoroughly reviewed by the standing committee on law and parliamentary affairs, where opposition members participated without objection.
The passage of the Bill to regulate Constitutional Benches aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of provincial courts, ensuring timely and quality justice.