How are hearings under PERA conducted?

Under the PERA Force Laws, hearings are designed to be conducted summarily rather than as full trials, civil suits, or criminal proceedings. A summary hearing allows the Board or designated Hearing Officer to review facts, evidence, and submissions efficiently without adhering to the lengthy procedures of traditional court trials. This approach ensures that enforcement actions, penalties, or disciplinary measures can be implemented quickly and effectively, maintaining accountability while avoiding unnecessary delays.

The summary nature of PERA hearings also provides flexibility in examining evidence, calling witnesses, and making decisions, without strictly following the technical rules of evidence under laws like Qanun-e-Shahadat, 1984. The Board’s focus is on timely resolution, compliance, and performance oversight rather than procedural formalities. By conducting hearings summarily, PERA promotes transparency, speed, and effectiveness in enforcing regulations and maintaining law and order within the framework of the law.

This is why summary hearings are a key feature of PERA proceedings, allowing swift and fair adjudication while upholding the principles of justice and accountability.