Pakistan Army Is Biggest Land Grabber: Lahore HC
Context:
The Lahore High Court (LHC) made a significant statement accusing the Pakistan Army of being the largest land grabber in the country. This statement came during proceedings addressing illegal land acquisition and encroachments by various entities, including government and military institutions.
Key Points:
Historical Background:
Over decades, the Pakistan Army has acquired large tracts of land across the country. Many of these acquisitions have been alleged to be beyond the lawful limits or without proper authorization, especially in urban areas where land is extremely valuable.
Military Estates and Land Ownership:
The Pakistan Army controls numerous military estates and cantonment areas, which are legally protected to an extent. However, the court observed that beyond these protected areas, there have been illegal land grabs, including in civilian zones.
Encroachments and Illegal Possession:
The court noted that military authorities have, in some cases, unlawfully extended their control or possession over land originally owned by civilians or other government departments.
Impact on Civil Society:
These land grabs have caused displacement and loss of property for ordinary citizens and have complicated urban planning and development in affected areas.
Court’s Stance and Directives:
The Lahore High Court urged strict investigations into such illegal acquisitions and called for the restoration of unlawfully occupied lands. The court emphasized that no entity, regardless of status, should be above the law.
Wider Implications:
The ruling highlights issues of accountability and transparency related to land ownership by powerful institutions in Pakistan. It challenges the unchecked authority of military establishments in matters outside their mandate.
Summary Table:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution Involved | Pakistan Army |
| Nature of Issue | Illegal land acquisition/encroachment |
| Geographical Scope | Various parts of Pakistan, especially urban areas |
| Legal Concern | Land grabbed beyond lawful authority |
| Affected Parties | Civilian landowners, government departments |
| Court's Position | Pakistan Army is the biggest land grabber |
| Court's Directive | Investigate illegal land grabs and restore properties |
| Implications | Accountability and rule of law, limits on military power |
| Historical Context | Decades-long accumulation of land by military |
| Civil Impact | Displacement, loss of property, hindrance to urban planning |
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