LAHORE – Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar, who seems sensitive about water issues in country, on Saturday warned of initiating high treason cases against those who will try to hinder construction of dams.
The top judge, who has also launched fund raising for dams, gave the remarks while hearing a suo motu case against mineral water companies at apex court’s Lahore Registry.
He warned that an action under Article 6 of the Constitution will be taken against the enemies of dams, adding that he had started studying the said Article.
Article 6 of the Constitution
1. Any person who abrogates or subverts or suspends or holds in abeyance, or attempts or conspires to abrogate or subvert or suspend or hold in abeyance, the Constitution by use of force or show of force or by any other unconstitutional means shall be guilty of high treason.
2. Any person aiding or abetting or collaborating the acts mentioned in clause (1) shall likewise be guilty of high treason.
2A. An act of high treason mentioned in clause (1) or clause (2) shall not be validated by any court including the Supreme Court and a High Court.
3. Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament) shall by law provide for the punishment of persons found guilty of high treason.
Counsel for federal government and Water and Sanitation Authority (WASA) managing director were also present during the hearing.
The federal lawyer informed the court that private companies were paying Rs25 for per liter water to the government while the same was being sold for Rs50 in the market by the firms.
MD Wasa informed the court that these firms were using the ground water free of cost before 2018, to which, the Chief Justice said that companies and government should sit together to decide a rate for ground water.
Highlighting significance of water, the CJP said: “The value of water is more than the gold,” adding that proliferation of water will not be allowed at any cost.
“Serving the nation is my sole purpose,” the Chief Justice remarked and summoned the chief executive officers (CEOs) of all big brands on Sunday.
Last Warning To Dams’ Critics
On September 12, Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar gave ‘last warning’ to those who were criticising the Supreme Court initiative to collect funds for the construction of Diamer Basha and Mohmand dams.
The Chief Justice made it clear that the top court was not doing politics, adding that steps are being taken to serve the public.
Justice Nisar said the construction of water reservoirs is essential and will save the country from shortage of water.
