Lahore: The Lahore High Court (LHC) has issued an interim order to suspend the operation of the newly enacted Punjab Protection of Ownership of Immovable Property Ordinance, 2025, which allows deputy commissioner-led committees to decide property disputes.
The order was issued by Chief Justice Aalia Neelum on Monday during a hearing of petitions filed by Abida Parveen and others challenging decisions made under the ordinance. The interim order also suspends actions taken to transfer possession of properties under the new law.
Justice Neelum questioned the rationale of the legislation, asking how a revenue officer could take possession of a property while a related matter is pending before a civil court. She expressed concerns that the law limits the ability of affected parties to appeal and restricts the high court’s authority to intervene.
The ordinance, approved by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on October 31, aims to resolve land disputes within 90 days. It has faced legal challenges, with critics arguing that it undermines civil court procedures and the established judicial framework.
A Punjab law officer indicated that the provincial government may challenge the LHC’s interim order before the Supreme Court or request a review by the proposed full bench, though the chances of immediate relief appear limited.
The court’s interim order effectively pauses the implementation of the ordinance until further proceedings, ensuring that property decisions under the law remain on hold for the time being.
Samra Zulfiqar, a real estate analyst at Zameen.com, is passionate about finding projects that offer buyers the best returns. Her keen insights spotlight the market’s most promising opportunities.
