The Supreme Court instructed the government, Police IGs, and the Election Commission to address PTI candidates’ concerns and resolve complaints to ensure a fair election field. They acknowledged PTI’s claim of facing obstacles and emphasized the need to allow PTI candidates to submit their nomination papers without harassment.
During the hearing on PTI’s plea for a level playing field, the Election Commission stated they hadn’t received any requests to revoke PTI’s nomination papers. Justice Athar Manullah expressed concern over reported incidents in the media, questioning the Election Commission’s actions, citing specific instances like Usman Dar’s case.
PTI’s counsel, Shoaib Shaheen, highlighted ongoing challenges despite the election schedule being issued—MPO orders restricting PTI candidates’ paperwork submissions. The Acting Chief Justice questioned the Election Commission’s inaction on MPO orders and urged resolution for all grievances through a comprehensive review.
There was a call for the Election Commission to convene with political parties promptly by Justice Mansoor Ali Shah. The Supreme Court directed PTI leaders to meet with the Election Commission immediately for a thorough discussion and resolution of complaints.
In a significant directive, the Supreme Court prohibited the arrest of PTI election candidates and instructed the Police and Election Commission to address their concerns. Justice Athar Manullah stressed the importance of treating all political parties equally for a genuinely level playing field.
The court concluded by urging the Election Commission to promptly address complaints and resolve them, emphasizing fairness. The Acting Chief Justice instructed that all Police IGs refrain from harassing Tehreek-e-Insaf candidates and noted incidents of lawyers’ arrests from returning officers’ offices.
Subsequently, the Supreme Court dismissed Tehreek-e-Insaf’s petition. It’s important to note that Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faiz Isa is currently on vacation.
