IHC addresses Aurat Foundation’s election quota petition

ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice Aamer Farooq of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) presided over a hearing regarding a petition filed by the Aurat Foundation against the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for alleged non-compliance with Section 206 of the Elections Act 2017.

Section 206 stipulates that all political parties must allocate a minimum of 5% of general seat tickets to women in the National Assembly (NA) and the four Provincial Assemblies (Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Balochistan).

In response to the petition, Chief Justice Amir Farooq sought clarification from the ECP regarding the status of compliance with the 5% quota by political parties and the actions taken against those who have not adhered to this requirement.

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The ECP, represented by its legal counsel, informed the court that the Aurat Foundation’s complaint and the affidavits submitted by political parties are currently under review, and the ECP is conducting its assessment.

Acknowledging the urgency of the matter, Chief Justice Aamer Farooq emphasized that the general elections are imminent and cannot be halted. However, he directed the ECP to address the Aurat Foundation’s complaint in accordance with the law after the elections have concluded.

The Aurat Foundation was represented by its Executive Director, Naeem Ahmed Mirza, and Advocate Fazalullah Farooq during the proceedings.