by furqanIHC Lifts Ban on Property Transactions in Margalla Hills Localities
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has overturned the ban on the purchase, sale, registration, and transfer of properties in several prominent sectors of the federal capital. Property transactions are now legally permitted to resume in areas including Shah Allah Ditta, Sangjani, and Sarai Kharbooza.
The Ruling
The decision was handed down by Justice Muhammad Asif in response to a petition filed by a citizen, Fazal Abbas. The court ruled that the original restriction—imposed on December 1, 2023—was legally invalid because it had been enforced without the explicit approval of the competent authority.
Regulatory Compliance and Enforcement
While property dealings may resume, the IHC emphasized that all transactions must strictly adhere to the existing legal framework.
- Legal Oversight: Authorities have been directed to regulate all property dealings under the Capital Development Authority (CDA) Ordinance and Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) regulations.
- Crackdown on Violations: The court explicitly clarified that lifting the ban does not grant immunity to violators. Government bodies retain full authority to crack down on illegal housing schemes, unauthorized constructions, and unlawful land-use changes.