LAHORE: Lawyers in Lahore observed a court boycott on Monday in protest against the recent rise in petroleum prices, suspending routine legal proceedings across the city.
The Lahore High Court Bar Association and the Lahore Bar Association announced the strike, saying the decision was taken to raise their voice against the growing burden of fuel costs on the public. According to representatives, lawyers first attended to urgent cases at the Lahore High Court before beginning the boycott.
Bar President Babar Murtaza said the protest is focused solely on the increase in petroleum prices, which he described as unacceptable. He added that lawyers practicing in subordinate courts across Lahore also joined the strike, resulting in a wider suspension of court activities.
The legal community stated that the boycott was meant to highlight public concerns and demand relief from rising fuel prices. They also said the move reflects their commitment to protecting public interest and promoting transparency within the system.
Due to the strike, regular hearings in many courts were affected, while only urgent matters were taken up during the day.
Moreover, A petition has been filed in the Peshawar High Court challenging the recent increase in petroleum prices, arguing that the continuous rise is putting heavy pressure on citizens and businesses.
The case names the Ministry of Power, the petroleum ministry, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), and other concerned authorities as respondents. The chief secretary of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has also been included in the petition.
The petitioner has invoked Article 199(1) of the Constitution, stating that it is the government’s responsibility to manage and control the ongoing energy crisis. According to the plea, the failure to regulate fuel prices is affecting people’s basic rights, as higher petroleum costs are increasing transportation expenses and the prices of daily goods.
The petition argues that the energy crisis is damaging business activities and creating difficulties in everyday life for ordinary citizens. It urges the court to direct the authorities to take immediate steps to control rising petrol prices.
In addition, the petitioner has requested uninterrupted supply of electricity, gas, and petroleum products across the province. The plea also calls for a fair and standardized billing system to ensure transparency and relief for consumers.
The court is expected to take up the matter for hearing in the coming days.
