LHC dismisses load-shedding petition, fines petitioner Rs100,000

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court has dismissed a petition concerning unannounced electricity and gas load-shedding, declaring it unsubstantiated and vague, while imposing a fine of Rs100,000 on the petitioner.

In a detailed 15-page judgement, Justice Khalid Ishaq ruled that the petitioner had approached the court without first exhausting the remedies available through the relevant forums.

The court noted that the petitioner failed to present sufficient evidence or legal grounds regarding load-shedding, electricity tariffs, line losses and broader policy-related issues.

According to the ruling, complex challenges such as the energy crisis should primarily be addressed through the relevant institutions and policy mechanisms, as technical and regulatory matters fall within the jurisdiction of executive authorities and regulatory bodies.

The court further observed that public interest litigation is an important legal tool that must be exercised responsibly.

It emphasised that such petitions should not be motivated by personal publicity or bad faith and that courts have a duty to discourage misuse of the process in order to protect the administration of justice.

Justice Ishaq remarked that a public interest petition must be based on credible facts and evidence. Speculative, hypothetical or malicious claims cannot be entertained under the guise of public interest, the judgement stated.

The court also held that judicial intervention is generally inappropriate unless a violation of fundamental rights can be demonstrated.

It added that imposing costs is necessary in certain cases to prevent the wastage of judicial time and resources.

The judgement further stated that the petitioner had attached a certificate claiming that alternative forums had already been approached. However, the court found that the certificate was false.

As a result, the petitioner has been directed to deposit the Rs100,000 fine with the High Court Bar Dispensary and submit proof of payment to the Deputy Registrar within 45 days.