During a hearing of a petition regarding commercial activity on military land, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa has sought assurance from the attorney general that the army will solely focus on defence-related matters and refrain from engaging in business ventures.
CJP Isa raised concerns over the military’s involvement in commercial activities, including the operation of marriage halls on military lands. He emphasized the importance of the army remaining focused on its role as the “protector” and avoiding business endeavors.
Addressing the attorney general, CJP Isa requested assurance that the army would adhere to its core responsibilities and refrain from commercial activities. He emphasized the need for all entities to operate within their designated mandates.
In response, Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan affirmed the principle that each entity should perform its designated duties. However, CJP Isa pressed for a direct assurance from the attorney general regarding the military’s commitment to avoiding business ventures.
During the proceedings, the lawyer representing the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) intervened, stating that the disputed building in question belonged to his client. He highlighted irregularities in the land transactions and the construction of a five-story building on the site.
Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar commented on the ETPB’s passive role during the construction of the building, indicating possible negligence in oversight.
CJP Isa expressed concern over the potential involvement of the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) in facilitating unauthorized constructions. He suggested conducting audits of the assets of SBCA officers above the rank of inspector and urged scrutiny of assets registered at the Karachi sub registry by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
The director general of the SBCA appeared before the court, providing information about the department’s staffing. He revealed that the SBCA currently employs 1,400 individuals, including 600 building inspectors and 300 senior inspectors.
