A resolution opposing NEPRA’s recent decision was presented in the Sindh Assembly, with detailed debate scheduled for today (Tuesday). The resolution, initially moved by opposition member Aamir Siddiqui of MQM, also received strong support from the Sindh government.
Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon voiced strong opposition to NEPRA’s directive, stating that electricity distribution companies in Sindh are constitutionally prohibited from imposing collective punishment on the public. “We cannot remain silent on this matter,” he asserted during Monday’s session.
The resolution targets NEPRA’s July 18 decision to recover Rs50 billion from the residents of Karachi, to be collected by K-Electric. Aamir Siddiqui criticized the decision, arguing that penalizing entire communities for electricity theft—due to the utility’s own failure to ensure proper billing and recovery—is unjust. “NEPRA has no authority to punish an entire area for one person’s wrongdoing,” he added, demanding the reversal of the order, which is expected to be reflected in electricity bills from August.
Sharjeel Memon backed the resolution, stating that similar practices by other distributors like HESCO and SEPCO also violate citizens’ rights. “In some rural areas, one meter serves an entire village. I had filed a petition in the High Court five years ago on this issue, but it’s still pending,” he said. He emphasized the government’s responsibility to uphold human rights and expressed full support for the resolution.
Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar announced that the house would hold a detailed discussion on the resolution today. Deputy Speaker Anthony Naveed confirmed the ruling and adjourned the session until 1:30 PM on Tuesday.
Earlier, the Assembly passed the Sindh Control of Narcotics (Amendment) Bill. Introducing the bill, Law Minister Zia Lanjar explained that a new department was formed in 2024, leading to legal complications. The amendment now authorizes police to handle narcotics cases, and new independent courts are being established for these cases. Previously, such cases were heard by session or additional session judges.
Meanwhile, the Assembly rejected a motion by MQM’s Aamir Siddiqui regarding the collection of additional toll tax between Karachi and Bahria Town. The Minister for Parliamentary Affairs opposed the motion, stating that the toll is being collected by the federal government. The Deputy Speaker advised Siddiqui to bring a resolution instead, which could be passed and forwarded to the federal government for consideration.
