Supreme Court Rules Government Can Acquire Property Without Owner Consent Must Provide Fair Compensation

Pakistan’s Supreme Court has clarified that the government may acquire private property without the consent of the owner for public purposes, but must ensure fair compensation—emphasizing the principle of “gold for gold, not copper.” The court stated that valuation should consider market value, potential use, and future development, not just government rates. Delays in acquisition must account for inflation and price changes. The decision reinforces citizens’ constitutional rights under Articles 23 and 24, ensuring landowners receive appropriate recompense while enabling the state to carry out public-interest projects.