Latest news with #MianMuhammadRaufAtta
Business Recorder
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Non-developmental schemes: SCBAP concerned over allocation of enormous funds in budget
ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court Bar Association of Pakistan (SCBAP) expressed concern over allocation of enormous funds for non-developmental schemes in the upcoming budget. SCBAP President Mian Muhammad Rauf Atta, in a statement, issued by his office on Thursday, said these schemes must be strictly controlled and actively discouraged, as they create a clear pathway for corruption. 'It is also concerning to note that federal government has taken significantly higher loans compared to the previous year — a move that could have dire consequences on the economy,' he added. The SCBAP chief stated that in order to discuss these issues, the association will call a meeting of its Executive Committee soon, and announce further course of action. The SCBAP demanded that the increase of toll rates be withdrawn immediately; saying if this does not happen then the association will challenge this decision on appropriate forums in competent Court of law. He stated, 'The SCBAP firmly believes that the NHA's move to drastically increase toll taxes for motorways and highways is tantamount to extortion from an already burdened public grappling with prevalent inflation.' 'This imposition of an additional 50 percent tax is entirely unjustifiable and deserves unequivocal condemnation.' The NHA, a day ago, announced a 50 percent increase in toll taxes for vehicles without M-Tag or with low balance, effective 15 June 2025, as part of a move to implement a 100 per cent M-Tag system across the country's motorways. Further, this move is a classic example of how a non-political figure, primarily concerned with property business, is given the responsibility to govern serious matters instead of genuine political leaders who should prioritize the welfare of the populace. Rauf stated that a critical examination of this decision shows that same is the case here where a Ministry of Communications is being run by a person, who is known for his property business and NHA falls under the purview of the same ministry. Rather than addressing its own flaws and inefficiencies, the NHA has chosen to further exploit the public by raising toll charges, which is utterly unacceptable. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
3 days ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
SCBAP terms toll hike by NHA 'extortion', vows legal challenge
Listen to article The Supreme Court Bar Association of Pakistan (SCBAP) has issued a strong statement condemning the National Highway Authority's (NHA) recent decision to increase motorway and highway toll taxes by 50%, calling it an act of 'extortion' and vowing to challenge the decision through legal means. In a press statement released on Wednesday, SCBAP President Mian Muhammad Rauf Atta termed the tax hike 'entirely unjustifiable' and demanded its immediate withdrawal. READ MORE: SCBAP rejects Indus canal plan, calls for fair water sharing 'The imposition of an additional 50% tax is a move that deserves unequivocal condemnation,' he said, adding that if the decision is not reversed, SCBAP will challenge it through legal forums in a competent court of law. The bar association also criticised the leadership of the Ministry of Communications, under which the NHA operates. It questioned why a non-political figure primarily known for his involvement in the property business was given charge of a ministry responsible for public infrastructure. 'This is a classic example of how a person with private business interests is handling public matters that require genuine political leadership concerned with the welfare of the people,' the statement read. SCBAP said the ministry should focus on addressing inefficiencies within the NHA rather than placing an additional burden on the public through increased toll charges. The decision, it said, is 'utterly unacceptable.' The association intends to challenge the decision through legal means if it is not withdrawn immediately. The statement further raised alarm about the upcoming federal budget, expected next week, criticising the allocation of large sums to non-developmental schemes. SCBAP warned that such allocations pose a significant corruption risk and must be discouraged. READ MORE: IHC seeks NHA fund details for Bhong Interchange 'It is concerning to note that the federal government has taken significantly higher loans compared to the previous year,' it added. 'This move could have dire consequences for the economy.' SCBAP announced it will soon convene a meeting of its Executive Committee to discuss these public concerns and determine a further course of action. NHA enforces 50% toll hike for non-M-Tag vehicles starting June 15 Earlier, the NHA announced a 50% increase in toll taxes for vehicles without M-Tag or with low balance, effective 15 June 2025, as part of a move to implement a 100% M-Tag system across the country's motorways. The decision, notified under Section 10(2)(vii) of the NHA Act 1991 as amended in 2024, applies to key motorways including M-1, M-2, M-3, M-4, M-5, M-9, M-14, and E-35. The notification details revised toll rates incorporating a 50% penalty for non-compliant vehicles. According to the NHA, the new toll for cars on the Islamabad–Lahore (M-2) motorway has been fixed at Rs 1,800, while tolls for Lahore–Abdul Hakeem (M-3) and Pindi Bhattian–Multan (M-4) have been set at Rs 1,200 and Rs 1,600 respectively. Multan–Sukkur (M-5) tolls for cars now stand at Rs 1,800, and the rate for DI Khan–Hakla (M-14) has been raised to Rs 1,000. Meanwhile, cars travelling on the Hassanabdal–Mansehra Expressway (E-35) will pay Rs 450. Heavy vehicles will also face steep charges. Two- and three-axle trucks on the Lahore–Islamabad route will be charged Rs 7,900, while articulated trucks will be charged Rs 10,200. Motorists have been urged to ensure timely M-Tag registration and sufficient account balance to avoid the fine. M-Tag facilities are available at motorway toll plazas and authorised service centres nationwide.
Express Tribune
19-04-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
SCBAP rejects Indus canal plan, calls for fair water sharing
Listen to article The Supreme Court Bar Association of Pakistan (SCBAP) has strongly opposed the construction of six new canals from the Indus River, warning that the project could intensify inter-provincial tensions and worsen already dire water shortages in Sindh. In its sixth meeting of the 27th Executive Committee, held at the SCBAP registry branch in Lahore, the committee passed a series of resolutions addressing key national concerns, including water distribution, regional security, and political unrest. The committee unanimously disapproved of the proposed extraction, calling it a potential flashpoint between Punjab and Sindh. It urged the government to focus on reducing water wastage rather than building new infrastructure that could disrupt the fragile balance of existing resources. 'Instead of creating six new canals, comprehensive efforts should be made to minimise water wastage,' the committee stated, emphasising that equitable access to water for local farmers, particularly small landholders (harries), must be prioritised. The committee also called for strict action against long-standing power groups and feuds that have monopolised water usage. It demanded a nationwide crackdown on individuals and entities involved in water theft, calling such actions a major obstacle to fair distribution. Turning to internal security, the SCBAP expressed serious concern over the deteriorating law and order situation in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). While welcoming the recent announcement to end the BNP-Mengal sit-in, the committee stressed that the grievances behind such protests must be addressed through sustained political engagement. The committee commended the efforts of SCBAP President Mian Muhammad Rauf Atta, who has led a political initiative to build national consensus around the challenges in Balochistan. Members encouraged him to continue holding meetings with key stakeholders to develop long-term solutions. 'While progress has been made, much more remains to be done,' the committee said. 'Political negotiations and discussions remain the most viable path to achieving peace and national stability.' The committee also recognised the role of the federal government and other stakeholders in addressing Balochistan's concerns, but emphasised that further action is needed to resolve long-standing structural issues through inclusive dialogue. The SCBAP's resolutions reflect growing calls within Pakistan's legal and civil society communities for transparent governance, equitable resource distribution, and political reconciliation in marginalised regions. Earlier, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has issued a strong warning to the federal government, stating that the controversial canal projects could endanger the federation's unity. He demanded that the federal authorities withdraw the proposed canal initiatives or risk losing PPP's support in the ruling coalition.
Express Tribune
14-04-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
IMF, Supreme Court Bar Association hold meeting to discuss judicial efficiency
Listen to article A meeting between the International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission and the Supreme Court Bar Association of Pakistan (SCBAP) was held in Islamabad on Monday to address critical issues affecting Pakistan's judicial system and its broader economic environment. The meeting, led by SCBAP President Mian Muhammad Rauf Atta, focused on improving judicial efficiency, contract enforcement, and property rights protection—key areas that the IMF believes directly impact foreign investment and economic growth. Attending the meeting were the Presidents of the High Court Bar Associations of Balochistan and Sindh, Mir Atta Ullah Langove and Barrister Sarfraz Metlo, respectively. The session lasted for more than an hour and discussed several areas of concern, particularly judicial efficiency, which the IMF mission highlighted as a core issue. The SCBAP president outlined ongoing efforts to enhance judicial efficiency in Pakistan. He noted the introduction of an e-filing system by the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP), which replaces the traditional filing system, as well as improvements in case management to expedite the disposal of pending cases. Additionally, the introduction of video link facilities in the Supreme Court aims to streamline operations and reduce delays. Furthermore, the SCBAP President highlighted the recently introduced 26th Constitutional Amendment, which aims to improve judicial independence and efficiency. Under this amendment, a constitutional bench has been formed to handle complex, high-profile political and constitutional cases, thereby reducing court congestion for regular work. Another important initiative discussed was the institutional system that monitors the performance of judges, with a focus on improving the accountability and effectiveness of the judiciary at all levels. In terms of contract enforcement, the IMF mission raised concerns over delays and procedural inefficiencies. The SCBAP President responded by acknowledging the issue but assured the mission that the government is working towards creating a conducive environment to attract foreign investment. Specialised courts and benches are being established to deal specifically with contract enforcement matters. Regarding property rights, the mission was informed that Articles 23 and 24 of Pakistan's Constitution safeguard the right to own property, and efforts are being made to strengthen anti-encroachment laws and enforcement mechanisms. The meeting concluded with both sides emphasising the need for economic and political stability, as well as good governance, to address the challenges facing the judicial system and improve Pakistan's investment climate. The SCBAP President stressed that the rule of law is the cornerstone for achieving these goals. The IMF mission agreed to follow up by sharing a questionnaire on the discussed issues with the SCBAP, seeking detailed responses along with proposals and suggestions to address the concerns raised.
Express Tribune
15-02-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
SCBA, IMF team discuss judicial reforms
ISLAMABAD: A delegation from the IMF's Governance and Corruption Diagnostic Assessment team met with representatives of the SCBA on Friday to discuss deficiencies in the judicial system and efforts to curb corruption in government institutions. SCBAP President Mian Muhammad Rauf Atta led the association's delegation in the discussions. The IMF team is in Pakistan as part of the ongoing review of the judicial framework under the $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF). The meeting lasted for over an hour and took place in a cordial and constructive atmosphere. The Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) member Hasan Raza Pasha, along with SCBA Additional Secretary Muhammad Aurangzeb Khan and Balochistan High Court Bar Association President Mir Ataullah Lango, were also present during the discussions. According to a statement issued by the SCBA, the primary focus of the meeting was curbing corruption to create an investment-friendly environment in Pakistan. The SCBA president highlighted flaws in the judicial system, including case backlog at lower and district courts and the shortage of judges. The discussion also covered inactive government departments and the potential of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms to reduce the burden on courts and improve public access to justice. The meeting further discussed strategies to combat corruption, enhance governance and implement legal reforms. The SCBA president stressed the need for strict measures against financial crimes to strengthen Pakistan's economy. Addressing concerns over judicial accountability, Mian Rauf Ata underlined that the legal system already has a mechanism for reward and punishment. He elaborated that the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) addresses complaints against higher judiciary judges while relevant High Courts oversee district judges.
