HC Verdict on Quick Rental Law’s Constitutionality Nov 14

The High Court has scheduled November 14 for its verdict on a writ petition challenging the constitutionality of Sections 9 and 6(2) of the Quick Enhancement of Electricity and Energy Supply (Special Provisions) Act, 2010.

The petition questions provisions within the Act that shield rental and quick rental power plants from legal challenges and vest sole authority in the energy minister to approve electricity purchase plans. According to the petition, Section 9 prevents any court from questioning actions or orders under the Act, while Section 6(2) grants the energy minister the authority to negotiate and approve energy-related investments before forwarding them to the cabinet committee.

The High Court bench of Justice Farah Mahbub and Justice Debasish Roy Chowdhury announced the verdict date after concluding hearings on Thursday.

On September 2, the High Court issued a rule asking the government to explain why these sections of the Act should not be declared unconstitutional. The writ was filed by Supreme Court lawyers Dr. Shahdeen Malik and Md. Tayeb-Ul-Islam Showrov, who argued that the provisions limit judicial oversight and concentrate decision-making power.

During the hearing, Dr. Shahdeen Malik presented arguments on behalf of the petitioners, while Attorney General Md. Asaduzzaman and Deputy Attorney General Md. Tanim Khan represented the state.