Punjab Province

Lahore | Re News Pakistan
The Lahore High Court has upheld the government’s policy regarding free electricity units for officers of power distribution companies, ruling in favor of monetization. The court dismissed a petition filed by the GEPCO Engineers and Officers Association and maintained the notification issued on December 5, 2023, under which free electricity units for officers in BPS-17 and above were converted into monetary compensation.
In its judgment, the court observed that free electricity units were not a permanent or legal right but rather a concessional benefit, which the government is empowered to modify or withdraw under its administrative policies. The petitioners failed to establish that the benefit formed part of their salary or was protected under any law.
The ruling further stated that such benefits do not become part of service conditions unless they are granted legal status. According to the court, no violation of fundamental rights was proven, and the matter falls within the employer-employee relationship.
The court also clarified that having separate policies for different grades does not constitute discrimination, as officers in BPS-17 and above belong to a distinct cadre.
Terming the Power Division’s policy as reasonable and financially justified, the court noted that the power sector is facing serious challenges, including circular debt, making measures like monetization necessary.
The judgment emphasized that the facility has not been withdrawn but converted into cash, and there is no evidence suggesting any adverse impact on overall salaries.
The court reiterated that judicial interference in policy matters is limited and that policies cannot be struck down unless they are illegal or made in bad faith.
Justice Malik Javed Iqbal Wains issued the detailed 14-page written judgment, while Assistant Attorney General Malik Tanveer Ahmed Awan assisted the court on behalf of the federation.

Pattoki: [Sadaf Arshad District Coordinator ReNews Pakistan]
Assistant Commissioner Pattoki, Nishtar Rehman Lodhi, has clarified that Ladies Park Pattoki remains open for women and children, although a portion of the park has been temporarily closed due to ongoing renovation and upgradation work.
He stated that women can continue to visit the park freely for walking and recreational activities, while the remaining development work is being carried out to improve facilities.
The Assistant Commissioner warned that strict legal action will be taken against individuals involved in damaging barriers installed at the park. He added that the barriers have been reinstalled and special monitoring teams have been formed to ensure security and prevent further violations.
He urged citizens to protect public property and cooperate with the administration so that development work can be completed without disruption.
These remarks were made during a meeting with members of the Registered Press Club Pattoki, including President Ubaidullah Sheikh, Vice President Sheikh Farooq, General Secretary Mahmood Khalid Ghuman, and Media Coordinators.

Chunian: [Sadaf Arshad District coordinator ReNews Pakistan]
Sutlej Stadium in Chunian, established over three decades ago, is rapidly deteriorating and turning into a neglected structure due to lack of maintenance.
According to local residents, the stadium is facing a severe shortage of basic facilities, while both the building and the ground have fallen into poor condition. Sports activities have nearly come to a halt, depriving the youth of healthy recreational opportunities.
Citizens stated that the condition of the stadium is worsening day by day, yet no effective steps are being taken by the concerned authorities for its rehabilitation.
Residents have appealed to the district administration to release funds and initiate immediate restoration work, along with upgrading the facility with modern amenities to revive sports activities in the area.
They emphasized that restoring the stadium would not only promote sports but also encourage positive engagement among the youth.