LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday issued notice to the Punjab Government on a petition challenging the ban on release of funds for development works of local bodies.

Chairperson District Council Sialkot Hina Arshad had filed a petition, arguing that even after the approval of budget no funds were being released for the development work. She explained that the move had halted all ongoing development projects.

She pointed out that non-release of funds for the local bodies was unjustified and beyond the authority of the Punjab Government.

She requested the court to direct the Punjab Government to release funds for development works.

After hearing initial arguments, the court issued notice to the provincial government and sought a reply by November 26.