ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court expressed its reservations on Friday over the Lahore High Court’s (LHC) decision to issue a restraining order against Faisalabad Electric Supply Company Chairman Shafiqul Hassan’s transfer.

A three-member bench headed by Justice Umar Ata Bandial heard the case and expressed concern over the court’s decision.

Justice Bandial observed that the high court does not issue restraining orders after hearing cases unilaterally. “In this case, a unilateral restraining order was issued against the order of the government,” he added.

He further stated that the powers of the judiciary can only be exercised under certain principles.

“Additional powers were exercised in the transfer of the FESCO chairman. The LHC issued a restraining order on August 28 without a hearing,” the additional attorney general complained.

Responding to the AAG’s comments, Justice Bandial categorically stated that the apex court does not interfere in the interim orders of the LHC.

“The Supreme Court intervenes only if there is a serious violation of the law or if the high court transgresses its jurisdiction of the hearing,” he added.

The judge maintained that the LHC must make a decision within a week. The restraining order will be considered null and void after a week, and the CEO will report back to his old company.

Following the order, the Supreme Court disposed of the federal government’s plea.