CDA’s anti-encroachment campaign applies to everyone, says Talal Chaudhry

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry has said that Islamabad's anti-encroachment campaign will continue without discrimination or political influence, stressing that illegal constructions will not be tolerated.

He also questioned the legality of a security cabin and generator installed outside the Islamabad residence of JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, calling it inappropriate to defend unauthorised structures.

His remarks came a day after the Capital Development Authority (CDA) issued a notice to Fazlur Rehman's residence, identifying alleged encroachments and illegal constructions and directing their removal within 15 days.

The notice was issued amid growing tensions between the government and the JUI-F chief, who had recently accused the government of violating the Constitution. Federal ministers responded by criticising his political role in previous governments.

Speaking on television, Chaudhry said the anti-encroachment operation had been underway for more than 18 months, with notices issued across Islamabad. He maintained that action had been taken against anyone found occupying public land illegally.

The minister said the notice was issued as part of a routine operation to Amanullah, the owner of the property, giving him 15 days to remove a four-by-four security cabin outside the residence.

Describing the structure as cage-like, Chaudhry said a security guard was stationed inside it in both summer and winter without proper shade. He added that the generator outside the property was also covered by the same legal concerns.

He further pointed out that the residence was located in one of Islamabad's upscale neighbourhoods, where other property owners had also received similar notices and complied with the authorities' directions.