Hassan Naqvi
ISLAMABAD: In a hearing concerning Bahria Town and Revenue Employees Society at the Supreme Court, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa remarked on the considerable influence wielded by those involved in the case, suggesting they had considerable sway. Heading the bench, the CJP directed for the live telecast of the case proceedings, noting a lack of media coverage against these influential figures.
“The key figures in this case are Pervez Musharraf, Parvez Elahi, and Malik Riaz,” remarked CJP Isa, implying their significant role in the matter. He went on to express his dismay over the sale of DHA land under the guise of honoring martyrs, urging authorities not to exploit the sacrifices of the fallen for commercial gain.
“The exploitation of martyrs’ names for business is unacceptable,” Justice Isa emphasized. He also raised concerns about the involvement of Bahria Town employees in the committee formed by the chief minister on the issue, suggesting a conflict of interest. “The parties involved seem to be sitting on both sides of the table,” the CJP remarked.
CJP Isa questioned whether proper procedures were followed in the closure of the Revenue Co-operative Society and if bids were invited from builders. He pointed out that the decision to engage Bahria Town seemed predetermined, with minimal transparency in the process. “There was a directive from the chief minister to enter into an agreement,” CJP Isa highlighted.
The lawyer representing Bahria Town informed the court that the matter had been ongoing since 2004, with the selection of Bahria Town preceding formalities. The CJP then inquired if the victims were open to an out-of-court settlement.
Responding to the court, the victims’ lawyer argued that they were allotted plots in remote areas instead of the designated ones, expressing willingness to negotiate if the terms were fair.
