SHC suspends Pakistan Railways' notice demanding dues from K-Electric

Lawyer says PR does cannot demand money for electric poles and wiring installed prior to K-Electric's privatisation.

The Sindh High Court has issued a stay order on the demand notice issued by Pakistan Railways to K-Electric, halting any further action regarding the payment of dues.

The court proceedings took place after K-Electric challenged the demand notice issued by Pakistan Railways for payments related to electric poles and wiring.

K-Electric's lawyer argued that Pakistan Railways has repeatedly sought payments, sending four demand notices so far.

The lawyer further claimed that Pakistan Railways does not have the legal authority to demand money for installations made prior to the privatisation of K-Electric.

He argued that the notices were being used by Pakistan Railways to avoid paying electricity bills, with varying amounts being demanded — at times Rs. 500 million, and at other times Rs. 5 billion.

In response, Pakistan Railways maintained that if K-Electric failed to pay the outstanding amount, the installations would be removed.

However, the court ruled in favor of K-Electric, issuing an injunction against the four demand notices sent by Pakistan Railways.

The court also issued notices to Pakistan Railways, the Deputy Attorney General, and other concerned parties, requesting responses by December 12.

Previously, SHC accepted two petitions against the restrictions imposed by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) on live reporting of court proceedings.

On May 21, Pemra issued a notification directing all satellite TV channels not to air any content, including commentary, opinions or suggestions about the potential fate of "such sub judice matter which tends to prejudice the determination by a court or tribunal".

The regulator also directed TV channels to refrain from airing tickers and headlines with regard to court proceedings, asking them to report only written orders of court.

"However, where court proceedings are broadcast live, such proceedings may be reported by the TV channels," it said.