ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Supreme Court said on Tuesday the election commission’s decision to delay polls in two provinces was “illegal” and ordered that the elections be held on May 14, reports said.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had delayed polls in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces to October 8, citing a lack of resources. The elections were originally due to be held by April 30.

“The law and Constitution do not give ECP the authority to delay the elections,” the top court observed.

It maintained that 13 days were wasted because of the ECP’s unlawful decision. According to the court, candidates will be able to submit nomination papers from April 10, the Election Commission will publish the list of candidates on April 19, and electoral symbols will be issued by April 20, The Dawn said.

The court further directed the caretaker government in Punjab to assist the commission and instructed the ECP to inform the court if the government refused to do so.

It also ordered the government to release Rs21 billion for elections in Punjab by April 10 and told the ECP to submit a report on the matter in court the same day. “In the case of non-provision of funds, the court will issue an appropriate order.”

“In the case of non-provision of funds, the court will issue an appropriate order.”

“Elections should be conducted transparently and impartially,” the court observed, The Dawn reported.