ISLAMABAD, October 30, 2024: President Asif Ali Zardari has signed a new bill that establishes special courts to address property disputes involving overseas Pakistanis, ensuring that cases are resolved within 90 days.
The legislation aims to protect the property rights of expatriates and was unanimously passed by the Senate on October 17.
Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik presented the bill, although PTI’s Ali Zafar raised concerns regarding the possibility of false cases and requested a referral to a committee.
These special courts will have jurisdiction over the Islamabad Capital Territory and will enable overseas Pakistanis to file petitions using modern technologies, including e-filing.
Evidence may be submitted through video links or other legally accepted methods, with oversight from officials from Pakistan’s High Commission, embassy, or consulate.
In addition to this, President Zardari approved the Deposit Protection Corporation Amendment Bill 2024. Both legislative actions were taken under Article 75 of the Constitution.
The creation of these special courts is intended to provide a quicker resolution of property disputes and safeguard the interests of overseas Pakistanis.