NAB files appeal against LHC order halting Maryam Nawaz inquiry in sugar mills case

ISLAMABAD: The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has submitted an appeal to the Supreme Court challenging a Lahore High Court (LHC) order that stopped an inquiry against Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case.

According to NAB, the case does not involve any public funds. The bureau has also disputed the LHC's interpretation of the NAB law in its decision to halt the investigation. NAB maintains that the court's understanding of the relevant legal provisions was incorrect and has requested the Supreme Court to overturn the LHC's order.

The petition filed by NAB argues that the LHC's decision to stop the inquiry was based on a misreading of the law, particularly regarding the jurisdiction and authority of the accountability watchdog in cases where public money is not directly involved.

The Chaudhry Sugar Mills case has been under investigation by NAB, with Maryam Nawaz, who currently serves as Punjab's Chief Minister, being a key figure in the inquiry. The case has drawn significant attention due to her political profile.

NAB's appeal seeks to reinstate its ability to continue the investigation, emphasizing that the nature of the alleged offenses falls within its mandate, regardless of whether public funds are implicated.

Further proceedings will depend on the Supreme Court's response to NAB's petition.