A legal challenge has been filed against the renaming of a historic road in Punjab. The Lahore High Court’s Rawalpindi Bench has admitted the petition. The case questions the legality of renaming the centuries-old Ban Karore Road. The development has sparked debate over heritage preservation and legal procedure.
Ban Karore Road is more than 300 years old. It stretches approximately 60 kilometers. The road connects Rawalpindi with Kotli Sattian. It also provides access to Murree through Islamabad. Locals consider it an important historical and cultural route.
Lahore High Court Seeks Responses From Authorities
Justice Jawad Hassan heard the petition on Monday. The court formally admitted the case for regular hearing. Notices were issued to key government departments. These included the Punjab Ministry of Local Government and the deputy commissioner of Murree.
The court directed both respondents to submit written replies. Clause-by-clause responses to the petition were also ordered. The court emphasized the need for clarity on legal compliance. Further proceedings were adjourned until replies are received.
The admission of the petition has temporarily halted the matter. Any final decision will follow after hearing all parties. The court aims to determine whether due process was followed.
Petitioners Challenge Legal Basis of Name Change
The petition was filed by former chairmen of union councils in Kotli Sattian. The petitioners include Azhar Abbasi, Raja Haroon, Abdul Quddus, Raja Saleem Satti, Abdul Manan, and Barrister Hamza Anwar. They argued that the renaming violated constitutional and legal requirements.
According to the petitioners, historically significant roads cannot be renamed casually. They stated that proper legal procedure is mandatory. Public notice must be issued before such changes. Local residents must also be invited to raise objections.
The petitioners claimed that no such notice was given. No consultation was carried out with affected communities. Union councils were not approached for approval. This, they argued, makes the renaming unlawful.
They further contended that the Punjab Assembly resolution alone is insufficient. An ancient road’s name cannot be changed solely through legislation. Administrative and public consultation processes are required by law.
Objections Raised Over New Name and Process
The petition also challenges the new name assigned to the road. It was reportedly renamed as Air Marshal Raja Najeeb Road. The petitioners highlighted that the retired air marshal is still alive. They argued that naming public infrastructure after a living individual raises legal concerns.
They maintained that roads are typically named after national heroes or martyrs. Even then, strict procedures must be followed. These safeguards exist to protect historical identity and public interest.
The road’s heritage value was emphasized in the petition. Ban Karore Road has served generations. It has historical relevance dating back centuries. Its original name reflects local history and tradition.
The petitioners warned that ignoring procedure sets a dangerous precedent. Other historic sites could face similar changes without consent. Cultural erosion was described as a serious risk.
Case Highlights Heritage and Governance Concerns
The court will now review official responses. The outcome may influence future renaming decisions across Punjab. The case highlights growing concern over heritage preservation. Legal transparency and public participation remain central issues.
Until a final ruling is issued, uncertainty surrounds the road’s official name. Locals continue to identify it as Ban Karore Road. The case is expected to draw wider public interest in the coming weeks.
