Sindh High Court Regular Benches Excuse Themselves from Hearing Constitutional Petitions

Karachi: Following the formation of constitutional benches, the regular benches of the Sindh High Court have excused themselves from hearing constitutional petitions.
The hearing took place before a two-member bench, headed by Justice Salahuddin Panhwar, regarding a petition related to the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA). The petitioner’s lawyer argued that his case fell under Article 199-2 and requested the court to expedite the hearing of the matter.
Justice Panhwar remarked that any petitions seeking to restrain the provincial government, the federation, or any authorities from taking action would be heard by the constitutional bench. He advised the petitioner to seek permission from Justice K.K. Agha, adding that they were conditionally granting the request. The office would decide whether the case would be heard by the regular bench or the constitutional bench.
The court also excused itself from hearing cases related to call-up notices, freezing of accounts, and provision of protection, among others. These cases were adjourned indefinitely.
In the case concerning the cancellation of an FIR, the court directed that it be re-filed under Section 561, to be heard by the bench.
It is noteworthy that the Judicial Commission had recently nominated nine judges for the constitutional benches of the Sindh High Court. Justice A.K. Agha will head both the constitutional benches and the constitutional committee.