IHC Summons CDA Official Over KP House Sealing

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has recently taken a significant step regarding the sealing of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House in Islamabad. This action has raised concerns about the rights of provincial properties and the legal processes involved in such decisions. The court has summoned officials from the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to provide clarity on the matter, emphasizing the importance of due process in administrative actions.

On Wednesday, the IHC issued notices to the CDA and directed the Director of Building and Control to appear in court to explain the circumstances surrounding the sealing of the KP House. Chief Justice Aamer Farooq, who is presiding over the case, pointed out that the lease for the KP House was granted for a duration of 33 years and is extendable. This raises questions about the legality of the sealing without prior notice, as argued by Khurram Latif Khosa, the counsel for the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government.

Khosa contended that the KP House was sealed without any warning, which he described as an illegal act. He urged the court to declare the sealing unlawful and to issue orders for the immediate de-sealing of the property. The court has adjourned the hearing until the following day, indicating that it is taking the matter seriously and will consider the arguments presented.

In response to the situation, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sardar Ali Amin Gandapur announced the formation of a committee tasked with assessing the damages incurred at the KP House. He expressed his commitment to exploring legal avenues and developing a strategy to address the issue. During a cabinet meeting, Gandapur emphasized that there would be no compromise on the constitutional rights and provincial autonomy guaranteed under the 18th Amendment. He condemned the incidents that occurred during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protests, labeling them as intolerable.

The Chief Minister also voiced his concerns regarding police actions, alleging that police officers and Rescue 1122 officials were unlawfully detained while responding to the situation at the KP House. He vowed to take strict action against the Islamabad police and administration if any evidence of mistreatment is found. As the leader of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, he assured that necessary security personnel and equipment would accompany him in all his engagements.

This unfolding situation highlights the delicate balance between administrative authority and the rights of provincial governments. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future. It serves as a reminder of the importance of legal processes and the need for transparency in government actions. As citizens, it is crucial to stay informed about such developments, as they directly impact our rights and the functioning of our democratic institutions.