CDA Faces Scrutiny Over Dubious Allotment of 22 Plots

Islamabad's CDA is embroiled in controversy for approving 22 plots to a man who changed his and his father's names. The audit questions the legitimacy, highlighting issues with record updates and supporting documentation. The plots are valued at PKR 440 million, and the case calls for thorough investigation.

Islamabad’s Capital Development Authority (CDA) is under fire following revelations of controversial allotments of 22 plots to an individual who altered both his and his father's names, as per Dawn News. This individual received 22 plots in Sector D-13 in exchange for 84 kanals of land acquired by the CDA, cited in the 2023-24 audit report.

The audit report, under 'doubtful allotment of 22 residential plots,' clarified that according to CDA regulations, land acquired on a sharing basis entitles the landowner to a developed one-kanal plot for every four kanals. The audit uncovered that the 88 kanals and six marlas of land was initially owned by Mohammad Akhtar Tahir, son of Mohammad Ashraf Tahir.

However, the owner requested the CDA to allot the plots under his new name, Mohammad Azhar, son of Mirza Mohammad Ali, as reflected in his NADRA-issued CNIC. The CDA granted this request, reported Dawn News. Concerns arose because the allotment was approved based solely on the new CNIC without corresponding updates to land revenue records or verifying supporting documents.

The audit labeled the allotment as questionable, noting Mohammad Akhtar remained listed as the owner in land records. The audit valued the 22 plots at PKR 440 million and questioned the allotment's legitimacy without thorough verification. The audit in June 2023 pointed this out. The CDA cited a 2016 civil judge order for the name change, claiming all steps to update records were taken, Dawn reported.

However, the audit dismissed this explanation, highlighting the CDA’s failure to provide supportive documentation. Additionally, despite multiple requests for audit committee meetings in late 2023, none were convened. The audit recommends that the complete case file, including the civil judge's ruling and detailed record updates, be reviewed further. (ANI)