The controversy surrounding One Constitution Avenue Islamabad has taken a significant turn as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stepped in to pause all actions and form a high-level review committee. This decision aims to ensure a fair and transparent resolution while giving all stakeholders an opportunity to present their concerns.
The committee will be led by Azam Nazeer Tarar, and includes key government officials such as Talal Chaudhry, along with senior cabinet and commerce representatives. Their primary responsibility is to examine every aspect of the dispute and submit a comprehensive report within one week.
During this period, authorities including the Islamabad administration and the Capital Development Authority have been instructed to halt all enforcement actions. This ensures that affected individuals are not unfairly impacted while the issue is under review. Residents and stakeholders will be given a platform to present their viewpoints without bias, reinforcing the government’s commitment to justice and due process.
The situation escalated after reports revealed that the CDA, supported by law enforcement, attempted to take control of the 22-storey building following the cancellation of its lease. Authorities had even set a deadline for residents to vacate, with warnings of utility disconnections, increasing tension among occupants.
The legal backdrop of the case includes a recent ruling by the Islamabad High Court, which upheld the lease cancellation. Officials stated that the developer had defaulted on payments for more than two decades, leading to this decision. Additionally, concerns were raised that the building, originally planned as a five-star hotel, was converted into residential apartments, impacting Islamabad’s development plans.
With the formation of this committee, the government signals a balanced approach, prioritizing both legal compliance and public interest.
