The Muttahida Qaumi Movement – Pakistan (MQM-P) has filed an application to participate in the judicial commission investigating the Gul Plaza tragedy as advocacy papers were submitted by lawyer Tariq Mansoor on behalf of Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui.
The petition argues that key facts about the case are not being highlighted by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) government, claiming that during February 19 proceedings, the Director General of the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) attempted to cover up facts related to the building’s construction.
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The application references an earlier case (56/2005) registered by the Anti-Corruption Establishment against irregularities in Gul Plaza’s construction.
Accused included builder Gul Muhammad Khanani, the then DG SBCA, and the Controller of Buildings. Bail petitions of the accused had been rejected by the court. However, the PPP government allegedly withdrew the case to protect the accused.
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The petition further states that an officer named Manzoor Kaka, allegedly involved in illegal construction, was later appointed head of the SBCA.
MQM-P claims that critical material regarding the Gul Plaza incident remains unexamined and seeks permission to present this evidence before the commission.
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MQM emphasizes its intention to assist in the investigation to ensure accountability and safeguard citizens’ interests.
The party says its involvement will provide valuable input to the judicial commission and help uncover the truth behind the Gul Plaza tragedy.
