SC gives Sindh CM Murad one month to submit report in Karachi encroachment case

• CJP irked over failure to present report on anti-encroachment drive
• Top judge dismayed over Karachi commissioner's unpreparedness
• CM Murad Ali Shah arrives at SC Karachi Registry

KARACHI: Supreme Court on Tuesday summoned Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah in a case pertaining to removal of illegal encroachments in Karachi. 

During the hearing at the SC Karachi Registry, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Gulzar Ahmed was dismayed over the failure to present report on the anti-encroachment drive in the port city. 

The top judge summoned CM Murad, advocate general, secretary local government and Karachi commissioner. 

Addressing the city's commissioner, the chief justice sought an update on compliance with the apex court's directives. When Karachi Commissioner Navid Ahmed Shaikh said he was newly appointed, the top judge observed that the official should have done his homework.

Expressing displeasure over the unpreparedness of the official, CJP Ahmed questioned what they would know of citizen's needs. "Shall we frame charges against you and send you to jail as you are unaware of the issues this city faces?"

The top judge observed the case was ongoing for four years but there were no results. "A multi-story building is built on a one-story building permit. Government lands are out of your hands."

After a brief break, the hearing continued with CM Murad appearing before the bench and seeking two-weeks time to submit a report. He was accompanied by Murtaza Wahab and provincial minister for local government Nasir Shah. 

The court has given Sindh chief minister one month to submit a report.