President Zardari Approves New Laws to Protect Overseas Pakistani Property Rights

Islamabad-(Mudassar Iqbal): President Asif Ali Zardari has given formal approval to the Special Court (Overseas Pakistani Property) Bill, 2024, and the Deposit Protection Corporation (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in accordance with Article 75 of the Constitution.

“This legislation aims to provide a faster and more efficient process for resolving property disputes involving overseas Pakistanis,” stated the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development on its website.

The new law authorizes the federal government, in coordination with the Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court, to establish special courts dedicated to overseas Pakistanis. These courts will handle cases related to immovable property for citizens residing abroad, with judges empowered with district court-level authority.

Notably, the legislation allows applications to be filed electronically. If a party fails to attend a second hearing, the court may proceed in their absence. Overseas Pakistanis will be permitted to present evidence twice and can participate via video link.

According to the provisions, cases are to be resolved within 90 days, and affected parties have a 15-day window to appeal to the High Court, which is also required to make decisions within 90 days. The courts will prevent any transfer of property until a verdict is reached, ensuring it is transferred to the rightful party.

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