LHC issues notices to federal govt in PIA privatisation case

WEB DESK: The Lahore High Court (LHC) has issued notices to the federal government and other relevant stakeholders on a constitutional petition challenging the ongoing privatisation process of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), directing them to submit their replies by June 18.

In a written order issued by the court, the government’s counsel was instructed to ensure that comprehensive responses are filed by all respondents within the stipulated timeframe.

The high-court bench noted that the matter will be taken up again on the next date of hearing to review the submitted replies.

Claims of constitutional violations

The petition raises serious questions over alleged constitutional and legal violations embedded within the privatisation process of the national flag carrier.

It contends that proceeding under the current framework could result in substantial financial losses to the national exchequer, undermining public interest.

The petitioner has formally made the federal government, the Ministry of Defence, the Privatisation Commission, and PIA respondents in the case.

The plea argues that the state-owned airline’s assets and fleet were not properly evaluated in accordance with statutory requirements, thereby casting doubt on the overall transparency of the multi-billion-rupee transaction.

Transparency of asset evaluation questioned

According to the petitioner, the hurried nature of the privatisation mechanism bypassed essential legal checks, failing to secure a fair market valuation for the carrier’s domestic and international assets.

The court was urged to halt the process until a transparent, legally compliant audit of PIA’s worth is conducted.

After hearing initial arguments from the petitioner’s counsel, the court wrapped up the day’s proceedings and adjourned further hearings until June 18, putting the respondents on notice to defend the transparency of the privatization framework.