Delimitations should be conducted in transparent manner: CJP Bandial

Delimitations should be conducted in transparent manner: CJP Bandial

Pakistan

Says delimitations of constituencies is a matter of public interest

ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) - The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) should conduct delimitations of constituencies in a transparent manner, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial said on Tuesday.  

“The Commission should conduct delimitations in a transparent way,” the top judge said while hearing petitions against delimitations of provincial constituencies PS 7, 8, and 9 Shikarpur. The delimitations were challenged in the apex court in 2018. 

The CJP, during the hearing, further said if an official modified the circle even slightly, it could affect the votes of a candidate. He said delimitations of constituencies were a matter of public interest. 

The top judge inquired when were the general elections being held. Director General (Law) Muhammad Arshad shrugged his shoulders while expressing his ignorance. 

The chief justice then said as no date for the elections had been decided, the election commission should resolve all issues before the polls.

“This matter is more sensitive in Sindh. Grievances often come forth that delimitations in the province are not correct,” he added.

After hearing the arguments, the SC referred the matter back to the electoral watchdog.