Justice Mansoor Ali Shah makes remarks on Constitutional Benches

The Supreme Court of Pakistan has disposed of a petition regarding an over-billing case against Sui Northern Gas Company, emphasizing the need for judicial discretion in case transfers to the Constitutional Bench.

During the hearing, a two-member bench, comprising Justice Mansoor Ali Shah and Justice Aqeel Abbasi, reviewed the petitioner’s request to refer the case to the Constitutional Bench.

The petitioner’s lawyer argued that after the 26th amendment, the case should be reviewed by the Constitutional Bench.

However, Justice Mansoor Ali Shah responded with a smile, noting that the matter did not present any constitutional or legal question warranting such a referral.

“Do not take all cases to constitutional benches. Let us have some too,” he remarked lightheartedly, highlighting the bench’s capacity to handle cases that do not strictly require constitutional review.

While dismissing the petition, the court clarified that the petitioner may address relevant concerns during the ongoing case review.