Senate Rejects CDA’s Bid to Demolish Shibli Faraz’s House
In a significant development, the Senate of Pakistan has rejected a proposal by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to demolish the house of former Information Minister Shibli Faraz. The CDA had sought permission to demolish Mr. Faraz’s residence in Sector E-11 of Islamabad, claiming that it had been constructed illegally and violated building regulations. However, the Senate Standing Committee on Interior objected to the move, citing a lack of evidence and due process. The committee, chaired by Senator Attaur Rehman, reviewed the CDA’s request and concluded that it had failed to provide sufficient justification for the demolition. The committee members also expressed concerns about the targeting of political opponents and the abuse of authority by the CDA. During the meeting, Mr. Faraz appeared before the committee and presented his case. He denied any wrongdoing and argued that his house had been built in accordance with the law. He also accused the CDA of politically motivated harassment. After deliberating on the matter, the Senate committee voted unanimously to reject the CDA’s proposal. The committee directed the CDA to withdraw its request and avoid any further action against Mr. Faraz’s residence. The decision by the Senate committee is a setback for the CDA and its attempts to take action against alleged building violations. It also sends a strong message that the Senate will not tolerate political victimization or the arbitrary use of power. Mr. Faraz welcomed the Senate’s decision and thanked the committee members for their support. He said that the CDA’s actions were an attempt to silence his voice and intimidate his family. The Senate’s rejection of the CDA’s bid is seen as a victory for the rule of law and due process in Pakistan. It is expected to discourage the CDA and other government agencies from engaging in similar tactics against political opponents and dissenting voices.CDA Officials Reach Opposition Leader’s Residence with Bulldozer for Partial Demolition Attempt
CDA Officials Reach Opposition Leader’s Residence with Bulldozer for Partial Demolition Attempt
ISLAMABAD:
Lawmakers across the aisle in the Senate strongly condemned the Capital Development Authority’s (CDA) attempt to partially demolish opposition leader Shibli Faraz’s house on Monday and demanded a thorough investigation. PTI Senator Saifullah Abro informed the House that CDA officials arrived at Faraz’s residence with a bulldozer to apparently demolish sections of it. He alleged that officials harassed family members. PPP Senator Sherry Rehman questioned how the CDA could bring bulldozers to the residence where Faraz had lived for 15 years, demanding an explanation and clarification. Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar expressed concern and assured the House that a report from the Home Minister and Islamabad Chief Commissioner would be sought and presented on Tuesday. He stated that action would be taken if officials violated the law. Faraz, the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate, maintained his innocence and expressed confidence that the report would support his position. He also highlighted the detention of PTI Senator Ijaz Chaudhry and urged the House to expedite his production order for attendance in sessions.
Establishment of Standing Committees within Stipulated Period
The Senate successfully established standing committees within the stipulated 60-day period. Notices were issued to 42 standing and functional committees for formation. Opposition Leader Faraz emphasized the need for a transparent and principled process in constituting the committees. Tarar pledged cooperation and proposed immediate elections for chairmen of the standing committees on finance, planning, and development.
Addressing Climate Change Challenge
Justice Minister Tarar responded to a motion by PTI Senator Dr. Zarqa Suharwardy Taimur, highlighting the federal government’s efforts to address climate change despite limited resources. He mentioned a pilot project to utilize floodwaters and the introduction of climate-resilient seeds in agriculture.
Private Member Bills Introduced
Nine new private member bills were introduced, including amendments to the Pakistan Penal Code, the Islamabad Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, and the Prevention of Smuggling of Migrants Act. The bills were referred to the concerned standing committees for deliberations and reports. The Senate President noted that a Constitution Bill establishing the South Punjab Province had been passed by the Senate but not adopted in the National Assembly due to the PTI’s lack of majority.
Lack of Quorum Adjourns House
The House adjourned due to lack of quorum until Tuesday afternoon.The Senate of Pakistan has rejected the Capital Development Authority’s (CDA) request to demolish the residence of former Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Fawad Chaudhry. The decision was made during a session of the Senate Standing Committee on Interior. The committee members expressed concerns over the CDA’s request, questioning its legality and the timing of the demolition notice. Senator Afnanullah Khan, Chairman of the committee, stated that the CDA’s move appeared politically motivated and aimed at harassing Fawad Chaudhry. He questioned why the CDA had chosen to take action against the minister’s residence at this particular time. Other committee members echoed Senator Khan’s sentiments, arguing that the CDA’s request lacked justification and was an abuse of power. They also raised questions about the CDA’s authority to demolish private property. The CDA had previously issued a notice to Fawad Chaudhry, asking him to demolish his house located in Islamabad’s Diplomatic Enclave. The CDA claimed that the house was built on encroached land and violated building regulations. However, Fawad Chaudhry had denied the allegations, stating that he had obtained all necessary approvals for the construction of his house. He also accused the CDA of targeting him because of his political affiliations. The Senate Standing Committee on Interior’s rejection of the CDA’s request has come as a relief to Fawad Chaudhry and his supporters. The decision has also raised questions about the impartiality and motives of government agencies in Pakistan.
