Lahore High Court Raises Legal Questions Over PIA Privatization

Rawalpindi: The Lahore High Court Rawalpindi Bench, led by Justice Jawad Hassan, held an important hearing on a petition filed against the privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). The court proceedings sparked serious legal and public interest concerns about transparency, legality, and national ownership. Legal representation for the petitioner was provided by Nazakat Hussain Abbasi, Javed Iqbal, and A.R. Khattak

Petitioner Refuses to Withdraw Case

During the hearing, Justice Jawad Hassan asked Advocate Nazakat Hussain Abbasi, who filed the petition, whether he wished to withdraw the case. His answer was bold and clear:

“I will not withdraw the case.”

Justice Hassan remarked that he was prepared to announce a decision on the matter immediately, underlining the urgency and seriousness of the petition.

Privatization Commission Defends the Process

Barrister Manahil Tariq, representing the Privatization Commission, argued that the petition had become irrelevant. She said the privatization process being challenged was already completed, and the petition should be dismissed.

But Advocate Abbasi disagreed, stating:

“The Commission is trying to sell PIA for peanuts. Sections 23 and 24 have been completely violated. The entire process lacks transparency.”

PIA’s Bid Value: Just Rs. 36 Million

Justice Hassan asked the PIA representative:

“At what price is PIA being sold?”

The official replied that a bid of Rs. 36 million had been received, but the deal was not finalized yet.

This raised more concerns from the bench. Justice Hassan pointed out:

“You are placing restrictions on foreign investment.”

Advocate Abbasi responded:

“We are not against investment. We only want transparency and proper legal procedures to be followed.”

Court Demands Legal Precedents for Next Hearing

Justice Hassan then directed the Privatization Commission’s lawyers to come fully prepared for the next hearing. He said both parties must bring references from important court rulings on privatization. He also stated:

“Privatization in Pakistan must be legally sound. I will give a detailed judgment.”

Advocate Zain appeared on behalf of the federal government. The hearing was then adjourned until Friday.

Petitioners Speak to Media Outside Court

Speaking to reporters, Advocates Nazakat Hussain Abbasi and A.R. Khattak said:

“We will not allow the illegal sale of PIA’s national and international routes. We are defending the rights of the people.”

Legal Background: What Are Sections 23 & 24?

This case centers around violations of two important sections of the Privatization Commission Ordinance:

• Section 23: Ensures transparency, public interest, and legal checks during privatization.
• Section 24: Requires proper bidding, clear valuations, and accountability in the sale process.

According to the petitioners, these sections were ignored or violated, making the privatization legally questionable and damaging to national interest.

Summary

• Petitioners claim PIA is being sold without transparency.
• The bid received was only Rs. 36 million.
• The court has asked for legal references from both sides.
• Next hearing is scheduled for Friday.

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