pakistan 
The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) denied Monday the effect of the Supreme Court’s interpretation of Article 63-A of the Constitution on the CM’s contest held on April 16. The PTI, on the other hand, maintained otherwise.
On behalf of Hamza Shehbaz, a fine of Rs.100,000 was imposed by Chief Justice Lahore High Court (LHC) in the previous proceeding over not complying with the court’s order. CJ Muhammad Ameer Bhatti had also imposed the same amount of fine on the government, deputy speaker, and others. The court had sought their answers in the said petitions but they had not replied which irked the CJ Bhatti.
On May 25, the high court had slapped a fine of Rs100,000 on Hamza, the Punjab government, Deputy Speaker Sardar Dost Muhammad Mazari, and others for not adhering to LHC orders.
CM Punjab Hamza Shehbaz submitted his response to the High Court requesting it to dismiss the pleas, challenging his election as the Punjab chief minister.
Read Also | Israeli president says had an amazing experience meeting Pakistani expats
As the proceedings started today, CJ Bhatti questioned whether or not the court’s interpretation had a retrospective effect. Pervez Elahi’s counsel, barrister Ali Zafar, said “yes the SC’s interpretation has retrospective effect”. He also gave various citations wherein the decisions had a retrospective effect.
The CJ further asked whether the court’s short order states that the vote of defecting members will be counted.
Barrister Zafar’s argument revolved around the point that the apex court’s interpretation of the article applied to past decisions and added that it had a retrospective effect.
The CJ asked if there was a punishment for those who voted against the party line. “The Constitution does not mention punishment for an individual who comes to the office through such votes,” he asked. The PTI’s counsel said that both parties should have the same punishment.
The LHC then adjourned the proceedings by May 31 (tomorrow).
