The Chief Justice of Lahore High Court on Thursday commented that why no steps have been taken to provide free education to children under article 25-A, 18th amendment  in the constitution. He further said funds shortage could not be used as a reason for its non-implementation.

CJ Sheikh Azmat Saeed was hearing a petition.  The petitioner, Azhar Siddique said that 18th amendment guaranteed the uniform education system and the fundamental right of children to get free education under 5-16 year age group.

Pakistan is surviving with a very low literacy rate and it is the government responsibility to provide free education to children, he added. The chief justice demanded explanation from the Punjab Education Secretary till April 11.

The petitioner further indicated that government schools working under federal and provincial governments were taking fee from students and it is injustice with needy and poor children. He requested to take action for the implementation of Article 25-A.