KARACHI – The Sindh High Court (SHC) has suspended the Deputy Commissioner (DC) East’s order to seal a petrol pump operating on land allegedly belonging to the University of Karachi. A constitutional bench of the SHC stayed the DC East’s action for three weeks and directed the immediate restoration of the petrol pump’s operations.
Representing Pakistan State Oil (PSO), Advocate Asim Iqbal argued that the allegations of land encroachment are baseless, stating that the land was purchased legally in 2012. The petitioner further highlighted that the Deputy Commissioner failed to provide a fair hearing or a chance to clarify their position before sealing the premises. Consequently, the court has summoned a detailed report from the Deputy Commissioner regarding the sealing process and issued notices to all concerned parties.
Encroachment Case in Gulistan-e-Jauhar Block 2
In a separate proceeding, the SHC constitutional bench issued notices to the Ministry of Local Government, KDA, SBCA, and KMC regarding the illegal sale of plots in Gulistan-e-Jauhar Block 2. Advocate Usman Farooq informed the court that Plots ST-28 and ST-29, originally reserved for a school and a park, are being illegally occupied.
The petitioner alleged that individuals, including Khalid Shah, are involved in “China Cutting” and are attempting to sell the land for residential construction. The court has sought formal replies from all stakeholders, including the KDA and SBCA, to halt further illegal development on these public welfare plots.
