ISLAMABAD- Supreme Court (SC) has sought reply from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) government on an appeal plea filed by federation in OGDCL shares sale case.

Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Nasir ul Mulk has remarked “SC is entitled to interfere in dispute between provinces and federation. High Court does not wield such powers.” A 3-member bench of SC presided over by CJP Nasir ul Mulk took up for hearing appeal plea filed by federation in OGDCL shares sale case here Monday.

Attorney General (AG) argued “federal government conducted shows in London and Hoston for privatization of OGDCL and sale of its shares and the companies became ready to take part in bidding after hectic publicity campaign. As soon the bidding time approached, KPK government obtained stay order from Peshawar High Court in this respect despite the fact that high court was not authorized to do so. High court did not fulfill legal formalities. The high court decision not only led to undermine the prestige of the state but it also brought defamation. This way the problems will aggravate and no one will be ready to make investment in Pakistan in future”.

CJP remarked this matter relates to dispute between federation and provinces. The constitution entitles SC to interfere in this connection. Privatization process of OGDCL started in May and now much time has been elapsed.

Waseem Sajjad counsel for KPK government told the court federal government cannot interfere in the matters of provincial government. Following passage of 18th amendment of the constitution matters have become clear and provincial autonomy was given to the provinces.

AG said KPK government has demonstrated mollified intent by obtaining stay order at the very time of bidding. Therefore, reply be sought from them. The court while seeking reply from KPK government till today has adjourned the hearing of the case.