The Balochistan High Court (BHC) has suspended the provincial cabinet’s decision to grant judicial powers to executive officers. The suspension applies to deputy commissioners, additional deputy commissioners, and assistant commissioners. A two-member bench issued the order during a constitutional petition hearing.
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The petition was filed by Iftikhar Ahmed Langove, who argued the cabinet’s September 24 decision violated the Constitution. He cited a previous BHC ruling that clearly declared such transfers of power unlawful. The court agreed the objections were legally substantial.
The judges, Chief Justice Rozi Khan Barrech and Justice Sardar Ahmed Halimi, issued notices to the provincial government and other respondents. The Advocate General of Balochistan was also directed to respond. Implementation of the cabinet decision is now on hold.
Under Section 14 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, the provincial cabinet cannot confer first-class magistrate powers. The court emphasized that executive officials cannot exercise judicial authority. The BHC will continue hearings on the matter in upcoming sessions.
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The suspension reinforces the separation of powers in Balochistan. The Balochistan High Court made it clear that executive officers cannot assume judicial functions until further orders. Legal experts say the case could set an important precedent.