Sindh governor approves Covid-19 relief ordinance

Development comes after provincial government has removed clauses pertaining to utility concessions

KARACHI: Sindh Governor Imran Ismail has approved the Coronavirus Emergency Relief Ordinance drafted by the Sindh government, after the provincial government removed clauses pertaining to utility concessions.

According to sources, the governor signed the ordinance after the clauses to which he had earlier objected were removed. The ordinance will be applicable across the province with effect from April 1, 2020.

Under it, payment of rents for shops, houses and offices will be delayed, while the business community will also be given concessions in various taxes. Furthermore, no employees may be laid off or their salaries withheld, though deductions may be made depending on the salary amount.

Sindh governor rejects virus relief ordinance

Ismail had earlier objected to the draft, sending it back to the Sindh government with the observation that the province could not give concessions in gas and electricity, which fell under the purview of the federal government.

Upon his objection, the Sindh law department had removed the controversial clauses and returned it to him for approval once again, two days ago.

It should be noted that water bills will still be discounted under the ordinance, while students are additionally to be given a 20 per cent concession on school tuition fees.