The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday issued notices and sought a report in a contempt of court petition filed against the Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) over alleged tree cutting in violation of court orders.
Justice Raja Inaam Ameen Minhas heard the petition filed by citizen Muhammad Naveed Ahmed. The petitioner’s counsel argued that despite a court order dated January 15, 2026, restraining tree cutting in Islamabad, work on the expansion of Ataturk Avenue from D-Chowk to Ayub Chowk is ongoing, resulting in the cutting of old trees.
The petition also names the newly appointed CDA Chairman, Sohail Ashraf, as a respondent. The court was requested to halt the ongoing project, summon the chairman in person, and initiate action against officials responsible for the alleged violations.
The court issued notices to the respondents and sought a detailed report. The hearing was adjourned for an indefinite period.
IHC questions authority of food controller
The Islamabad High Court expressed strong displeasure over the actions of the Food Controller Islamabad in a case concerning the seizure and sealing of two flour trucks.
Justice Raja Inaam Ameen Minhas questioned how the Food Controller Islamabad could take action in an area falling under Rawalpindi’s jurisdiction. The court also sought clarification regarding the legal authority under which fines were imposed.
The state counsel argued that the Food Controller acted within delegated powers, but the court directed that documentary evidence, including relevant gazette notifications, be presented.
The court further questioned the absence of the Deputy Commissioner Islamabad and directed that a detailed report on the powers of the Food Controller be submitted.
Contempt plea filed over arrest of naanbais
A contempt of court petition has been filed in the Islamabad High Court against the arrest of naanbais in Islamabad despite an existing court order.
The petition was filed by Sajjad Abbasi, President of the Naanbai Association, through Barrister Umar Ijaz Gilani. The matter relates to the recent increase in naan and roti prices in the federal capital.
According to the petitioner, Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir had already restrained authorities from taking punitive action against naan bakers. However, despite the court’s directive, several naanbais were allegedly arrested in Islamabad.
The petitioner has requested the court to initiate contempt proceedings against the concerned authorities for violating the court’s orders.