LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday upheld the Competition Commission of Pakistan’s (CCP) decision to continue its inquiry into a private automobile manufacturer, ruling that leaving investigations unresolved for long periods undermines the principles of justice.
The verdict, delivered by Justice Raheel Kamran, came in response to a petition filed by the car company challenging the inquiry. Barrister Asadullah Chattha represented the CCP during the proceedings.
In its written order, the court affirmed that the CCP has the legal authority to collect data, request information, and launch inquiries into potential market irregularities. It highlighted that the automobile company had actively taken part in the inquiry process between 2018 and 2022. The notices issued by the CCP, the court noted, were procedural in nature and did not amount to final orders or penalties.
The LHC directed the company to furnish the requested information so that the inquiry can be wrapped up promptly. Justice Kamran observed that prolonged investigations contradict the spirit of justice and that the CCP’s information-gathering efforts are legitimate actions intended to ensure fair market competition.
Reiterating the Commission’s responsibility to curb price manipulation and anti-competitive behavior, the court instructed the CCP to complete the pending inquiry within six months.
