The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has ordered the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to provide a comprehensive account of individuals impacted by land disputes in Shah Allah Ditta and Sector C-13 within a month. During a Tuesday hearing, Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani questioned CDA Magistrate Sardar Muhammad Asif about the agency’s adherence to directives from the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).
Justice Kayani criticized the CDA for prioritizing NAB’s instructions over legal obligations. He asserted that NAB had caused significant harm and remained unaccountable. The judge encouraged CDA employees to serve the public without fear of NAB. He added that officials hesitant to fulfill their duties should seek reassignment.
The justice emphasized that errors are pardonable, but dishonesty is not. He highlighted the importance of recognizing the distinctions between civil rights, NAB’s purview, and the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) mandate. He stated that each entity must operate within its designated sphere of authority, noting that actions can stem from errors or malicious intent.
Citing revisions to NAB regulations, Justice Kayani pointed out that numerous cases have been withdrawn. He mentioned that in Islamabad, a mere three or four cases remain out of 106, as older cases have concluded. He urged the CDA to address public concerns without fear of NAB intervention. He further stated that if the CDA effectively discharged its duties, its current structure would be unnecessary.
The court also raised concerns about irregularities in land transfers, noting instances of properties registered in the names of individuals not yet born. Justice Kayani criticized the CDA and Chief Commissioner’s office for disregarding court orders. He noted that despite judicial instructions, the CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner have retained the same person in a particular position.
He suggested appointing a Deputy Commissioner in each sector to lessen the workload. The justice questioned whether an official who disobeys judicial directives would replace one DC with five others. He observed that when the court ordered the removal of a DC, the system supported the individual rather than complying with the order. The hearing was adjourned with the CDA instructed to present a full report on the affected individuals in Shah Allah Ditta and Sector C-13.