In Lahore, returning and presiding officers for the upcoming by-elections have been given the authority of magistrates.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has granted magistrate class 1 powers to these officers for the by-elections in 21 constituencies of national and provincial assemblies.

As per the ECP notification, district and returning officers will have magistrate class 1 powers on polling day for the 21 seats. The presiding officers will serve as magistrate class 1 from April 20 to 22. It is worth noting that the by-election for the 21 seats of national and provincial assemblies is scheduled for April 21.