Haji Lashkari Raisani Demands Official Notification to Suspend Mines and Minerals Act, Court Grants Government More Time

Quetta (Daily Qudrat) – During the hearing of a constitutional petition challenging the Mines and Minerals Act, the Balochistan High Court, presided over by a two-member bench comprising Justice Sardar Ahmed Halimi and Justice Iqbal Kasi, reviewed the case and granted the government additional time to submit its response.

After the hearing, petitioner Haji Lashkari Raisani and his legal team addressed the media, stating that despite verbal assurances by the Chief Minister of Balochistan to halt the Mines and Minerals Act, no formal notification has been issued to inform the public. Barrister Iqbal Kakr emphasized that transparency is crucial, and the public should be officially notified regarding the suspension of the law.

Haji Lashkari Raisani highlighted that the Act was passed at an unusually rapid pace and that the legislative process contained several questionable aspects. He asserted that the law could have long-term implications on future generations, natural resource conservation, and the rights of local communities, which is why the legal challenge was necessary.

Raisani also noted that an All-Parties Conference had earlier resolved to review the law, but subsequent silence raised concerns. He confirmed that efforts to challenge and halt the Act would continue until success is achieved.

The High Court adjourned the case until after the Eid holidays and instructed the relevant authorities to submit a detailed response in the next hearing, warning them to ensure compliance with legal requirements and maintain transparency throughout the process.