SC to take up petitions on inflated power bills

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court has scheduled a hearing for 1090 petitions, challenging fuel price adjustments, for October 16.

A three-member bench, led by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faiz Isa, presided over the case on Monday.

“The court will conduct arguments and reach a decision on October 16,” the court announced. It was further noted that no video link facility would be available on that date, requiring all concerned parties to be present in Islamabad to present their arguments in person.

Earlier, Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa declined a request for an extension of time from the Attorney General. The bench responded by urging the Attorney General to prepare for the case promptly.

Nationwide protests continue against inflated power bills

“The Attorney General has not been formally notified in this case, but he has expressed a desire to present arguments himself,” Assistant Attorney General Aamir Rehman stated while requesting more time for the Attorney General.

Chief Justice Isa responded, “If you, in writing, assert that Aamir Rehman is not eligible to present arguments, that would be acceptable. We do not wish to be discourteous.” Justice Isa also expressed confidence in Aamir Rehman’s ability to argue the case effectively.

“The number of cases related to power prices is substantial,” observed the Chief Justice. He said all stakeholders be present on the next hearing and no more adjournments will be given.

The court subsequently adjourned further proceedings until October 16.

It is worth noting that the Lahore High Court had previously declared the fuel price adjustment in electricity bills illegal in February of this year. Subsequently, the electricity transmission companies sought recourse by appealing to the Supreme Court against the decision.