Ten plots in I-12/4 were allegedly allotted on fake documents, while the authority investigates the possible involvement of its officials.
ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched a formal investigation into the alleged fraudulent allotment of 10 plots in Islamabad’s Sector I-12/4, with officials potentially facing action if wrongdoing is established.
According to a report published by Dawn on October 6, the alleged irregularities were identified during an internal review led by CDA Member Estate Mohammad Zaman Wattoo.
The 10 plots, each measuring 30 by 60 feet, were allegedly allotted to the legal heirs of a deceased landowner despite the fact that the landowner had previously received land in Tehsil Jalalpur Pirwala, Multan.
Fake documents allegedly used for allotments
Sources cited in the report said the plots were allegedly allotted on the basis of fake documents.
The investigation also found that the previous allocation of land to the deceased landowner had allegedly been concealed during the process of allotting the I-12 plots.
CDA officials are now examining the role of individuals who were serving in the authority’s land directorate at the time. An official cited by Dawn said the allotments may have been made in 2017-18.
CDA Member Estate Mohammad Zaman Wattoo confirmed that the investigation was underway but said details of the officers and specific plots involved could not yet be disclosed because the inquiry had not been completed.
Wider concerns over missing CDA files
The investigation comes against the backdrop of previous cases involving allegedly fraudulent plot allotments.
According to the report, CDA records contain around 200 cases involving “missing” files. Sources have raised concerns that some plots awarded as compensation for acquired land may have been allotted using allegedly bogus compensation files and later sold in the open market.
The report further states that some allegedly fraudulent files may subsequently have been removed from CDA records, potentially leaving genuine purchasers facing legal and ownership problems.
Around 240 missing-file cases reported
A committee formed to investigate the issue has so far identified around 240 missing-file cases.
The CDA land directorate has reportedly traced records of 50 files on the committee’s instructions, while investigations into the remaining cases are continuing.
The report said most of the alleged bogus allotments under investigation date from between 2013 and 2023.
CDA officials could face action
The ongoing investigation is expected to determine whether any CDA officials were involved in the alleged irregularities and whether the authority suffered financial losses as a result.
The CDA Member Estate said protecting the authority’s and public’s interests was the department’s responsibility and indicated that those responsible for causing losses to the authority could face consequences.
The probe will ultimately determine the facts, responsibility and any action warranted against individuals involved.
