Islamabad (Digital Post) : CDA official accused of Rs. 12 million bribe for NOC in Blue Area; FIA urged to probe alleged corruption

Islamabad: Serious allegations of corruption and violations of building control regulations have been leveled against a high-ranking official of the Capital Development Authority (CDA), bringing renewed focus on transparency within public institutions.

A formal complaint submitted to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Islamabad Zone has demanded an inquiry into the issuance of a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for a commercially valuable plot in the Blue Area.

The complaint, filed by journalist Syed Abid Hussain, centers around irregularities in granting an NOC for Plot No. 1-C, located at D-Chowk. The journalist has alleged that the NOC was issued despite multiple violations of CDA’s Building Control By-Laws, facilitated by a bribe of Rs. 12 million allegedly taken by Raheel Junejo, Deputy Director in the Building Control Section.

This case is further complicated by questions regarding Junejo’s qualifications, with claims that he holds an academic degree in Electronic Engineering, which does not meet the mandatory educational criteria for his position.

The complaint has requested the FIA to reopen a related inquiry referenced as RE-239/2023. Supporting evidence, including the contested NOC, Junejo’s academic credentials, and official correspondence, was attached to the submission to substantiate the claims. The complaint has also been copied to several key offices, including the President, Prime Minister, Chief Justice of Pakistan, and other high-ranking officials, highlighting the importance of swift and transparent action.

This case raises significant concerns about governance and the integrity of regulatory institutions. Public outcry is expected to grow as citizens increasingly demand accountability from authorities tasked with safeguarding civic interests. The plot in question is situated at D-Chowk, a prominent commercial and administrative hub in the federal capital, further emphasizing the public interest in ensuring due process and adherence to regulations.

The complainant, Syed Abid Hussain, stated, “This is not just about one case but about the integrity of our public institutions.” He underscored the necessity of transparency and accountability to restore public trust in governance mechanisms.

The FIA Islamabad Zone has acknowledged receipt of the complaint, and the public eagerly awaits the outcome of the inquiry. If these allegations are proven, this case could serve as a precedent for tackling corruption within public institutions, reinforcing the principles of fairness and accountability.