The Supreme Court of Pakistan is expected to announce its verdict on a plea challenging delay in the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa elections by the Election Commission of Pakistan today Tuesday. Apex court's three-member bench headed by Chief Justiece Umar Ata Bandial and comprising Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Ijazul Ahsan reserved the verdict on Monday after hearing arguments from parties concerned.

Ahead of the ruling, the Ministry of Defence submitted its report in a sealed envelop to the top court. Sources said the report contained reasons about unavailability of troops for elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The court will announce the verdict after reviewing the report. 

Meanwhile, a heavy contingent of police, Rangers and FC has been deployed while barbed wires have been placed around the top court as part of security measures to avoid any untoward situation. Furthermore, only relevant people will be allowed to enter the premises of the court after verification. People, who are visiting the apex court for their cases, will have to show the proof to enter the building.

At the outset of the yesterday's hearing, Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial asked PPP counsel Farooq H. Naek whether his party had boycotted the proceedings.    Attorney General for Pakistan Mansoor Awan, ECP lawyers Irfan Qadir and Sajeel Swati and PTI lawyer Ali Zafar were also present in the courtroom as the hearing bagan. Also in attendance were secretaries of finance and defence.

Credit : Independent News Pakistan-INP