LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Tuesday issued notices to the Federal Government and other concerned respondents regarding a petition challenging the decision to close utility stores nationwide. The petition, filed by Muzammil Rafique, was heard by Justice Muhammad Raza Qureshi, who has scheduled further proceedings for September 4.
During the hearing, the petitioner’s counsel presented arguments against the decision, emphasizing that Muzammil Rafique had been employed at utility stores for the past decade. The counsel argued that the utility stores contribute significantly to the national economy, paying billions in taxes and generating a net profit of Rs 2 billion. He further highlighted that the closure of these stores would result in the unemployment of approximately 11,000 workers.
The counsel also contended that the decision violated the Companies Act, which prescribes a detailed procedure for the closure of a company. He urged the court to annul the decision, arguing that it was not only detrimental to the employees but also disregarded the legal framework governing corporate shutdowns. After hearing the initial arguments, Justice Qureshi issued notices to the federal government and other respondents, seeking their responses by September 4. The court’s decision on this matter could have significant implications for the future of utility stores and the livelihoods of thousands of employees across the country.
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