ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) Chief Justice Aamir Farooq directed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and representatives of Marriott Hotel to settle the pending payment dispute amicably.

A day earlier the IHC had ordered the CDA to de-seal a portion of Marriott Hotel.

The CDA’s building control wing sealed a marquee hall of the hotel, an office of the hotel management and a gym for alleged violations.

IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq while hearing a petition filed by Advocate Zainab Janjua on behalf of Marriott Hotel ordered de-sealing of the portion of the five-star hotel.

However, when the court resumed hearing, the counsel apprised the Chief Justice that the Hotel had not been de-sealed despite the direction.

Justice Farooq summoned the CDA Chairman. The court scrutinized the CDA’s delayed response to its order, which had instructed the de-sealing of the hotel. CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa appeared before the court, explaining that the delay occurred as officials received the order late and only became aware of it the following morning.

Chief Justice Aamir Farooq expressed dissatisfaction over the CDA’s explanation, recalling past instances when court orders were promptly honored without hesitation. “In better times, a lawyer’s letterhead was enough to ensure compliance,” remarked the Chief Justice, emphasizing the importance of upholding judicial directives.

The petitioner’s lawyer, Zainab Janjua, stated that the court order had been shared with CDA officials through WhatsApp before 6pm the previous evening, despite the CDA office being closed. Responding to the Chief Justice’s query about the timing of compliance, the CDA Chairman confirmed that the hotel was de-sealed at 11amon the day of the hearing.

The court warned CDA officials against further delays, cautioning them that false statements could lead to serious consequences, including potential contempt proceedings.

“If anything comes out wrong, you will spend the winter in Adiala Jail,” Chief Justice Farooq sternly warned.

The hearing also shed light on procedural inefficiencies within the CDA. Justice Farooq advised the authority to enhance its legal processes to prevent similar lapses in the future.

The court adjourned the case until after the winter break, instructing both parties to negotiate and resolve the issue of pending payments.

Published in Dawn, December 21st, 2024