The Senate of Pakistan has approved the “Establishment of Special Court for Overseas Pakistanis (Overseas Pakistanis Property) Act, 2024,” a historic legal change that represents a significant step forward in preserving Pakistanis’ property rights abroad. Introduced by Chaudhry Salik Hussain, the Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, this legislation aims to facilitate faster and more efficient resolution of property disputes involving expatriates.
Overseas Pakistanis have long struggled to manage their property back home, frequently confronting legal delays, bogus claims, and procedural difficulties. This new rule (Special Courts for Overseas Pakistanis) addresses these long-standing issues by requiring that such disputes be resolved within a specified time frame, making it easier for expats to assert their rights from across borders. As the Act takes effect, it underlines Pakistan’s commitment to improving ties with its diaspora, which is an important element of the country’s economy and social fabric.
Was this Court Needed??
The newly approved law is designed to simplify and expedite the process of resolving property-related issues for Overseas Pakistanis. The creation of Special Courts for Overseas Pakistanis is central to this initiative. These courts will operate with a specific mandate to hear cases concerning property owned by Pakistanis living abroad, and they will work under strict deadlines to ensure that cases are resolved within 90 days of being filed.
The special courts will have authority over the whole Islamabad city Territory, but the law’s influence is expected to be felt far beyond the city. The government intends to eventually expand this concept to other regions, allowing Overseas Pakistanis from throughout the world to seek legal remedies with minimum bureaucratic delays. By focusing on property disputes, these courts will address one of the most common challenges that expats encounter, ensuring that their interests and properties in Pakistan are safe.
Use of Technology while simplifying the process
One of the key features of the legislation is its focus on modern technology to streamline the legal process. Recognizing the challenges that Overseas Pakistanis face in appearing physically for court proceedings, the new law allows for the use of electronic devices to file petitions and submit evidence.
Overseas Pakistanis will be able to file their cases via e-filing, making it easier for them to access the court system remotely. Furthermore, the law permits evidence to be submitted through video links or other legally acceptable means. This is a major advancement that will allow witnesses or plaintiffs to provide their testimony under the supervision of Pakistan’s diplomatic missions, such as the High Commission, embassies, or consulates, without having to travel to Pakistan.
This is a significant shift toward embracing modernity in Pakistan’s judicial processes, helping to bridge the gap between Pakistan and its citizens abroad.
Timely Justice for Overseas Pakistanis
The new law’s emphasis on timely case resolution is perhaps its most notable feature. Once an Overseas Pakistani files a case, the special court must settle the dispute within 90 days. This deadline ensures that property disputes, which are sometimes enmeshed in lengthy court fights, are addressed with the haste they require.
The time aspect is critical for Overseas Pakistanis, who may not have the leisure to engage in lengthy legal fights while living abroad. By requiring a ruling within 90 days, the law not only speeds up the process but also promotes responsibility inside the legal system. It demonstrates the government’s recognition of the necessity of protecting the rights of its expatriate residents and providing them with speedy justice.
Amendments before this acts approval
Prior to ultimate adoption, the measure was reviewed and changed by the Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development. The committee’s recommendations enhanced the legislation, ensuring that it effectively addresses the legitimate concerns of Overseas Pakistanis. Following changes, Chaudhry Salik Hussain brought the bill to the Senate, where it was successfully approved into law.
The fact that this measure has bipartisan support highlights its relevance. With millions of Pakistanis residing abroad, the diaspora makes tremendous contributions to the country’s economy through remittances and investments. The government’s emphasis on settling property disputes is viewed as an important step toward strengthening the connection between Pakistan and its expats.
Pin92.com: Championing Overseas Pakistanis’ Rights
Pin92.com, one of Pakistan’s major digital real estate companies, has long supported programs that defend Overseas Pakistanis’ rights. The firm has continuously lobbied for legislation to make property transactions easier and safer for those residing overseas.
The passage of the 2024 Act is consistent with Pin92.com’s aim to provide a secure and transparent platform for expats seeking to engage in Pakistan’s real estate industry. In recent years, Pin92.com has worked hard to provide opportunities for Pakistanis living abroad, conducting property shows in Qatar in 2023 and recently promoting Pakistani real estate in Saudi Arabia.
These exhibitions provided Overseas Pakistanis with direct access to trusted real estate opportunities, ensuring that their investments are secure. By facilitating connections between property developers and buyers, Pin92.com plays a crucial role in empowering expatriates to invest in Pakistan with confidence.
A step in the right direction
The “Establishment of Special Court for Overseas Pakistani’s (Overseas Pakistanis Property) Act, 2024” begins in a new era for Pakistanis living abroad. It provides legal protection, ensures speedy resolution of property disputes, and uses modern technologies to improve access to justice. The establishment of specialized courts, as well as the use of e-filing and video testimony, represent bold moves toward making the legal system more accessible to persons residing overseas.
This new legislation not only protects Overseas Pakistanis’ property rights, but also demonstrates the government’s awareness of their essential role in the country’s development. The government’s fast adoption of this bill demonstrates its commitment to addressing one of the diaspora’s primary issues.
As the world grows more interconnected, the ability to handle cross-border assets and properties with minimal delays or problems is critical. The 2024 Act is a positive step forward, ensuring that Pakistan’s relationship with its diaspora is solid and mutually beneficial. For organizations like Pin92.com, which have long advocated for the rights of Pakistanis living abroad, this law is a positive move that will pave the way for even more open and secure real estate transactions in the future.
