The Supreme Court of Pakistan has reserved its decision on review pleas filed in the Monal restaurant case. The case involves allegations of corruption and illegal land acquisition related to the construction of the restaurant in Islamabad.
The Supreme Court of Pakistan has reserved its verdict on the review petitions challenging the decision to close restaurants, including the popular Monal Restaurant, within the Margalla Hills National Park. Three-member bench led by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa handled the case and heard the arguments.
The Chief Justice emphasized the court’s responsibility to protect the environment. He also highlighted that the Margalla Hills National Park is a protected area, not private property. He noted that climate change is a pressing issue and that allowing commercial activities in such sensitive areas could lead to severe consequences, such as landslides in Islamabad.
The petitions were filed by restaurant owners, including Dr. Muhammad Amjad. He is a major shareholder of La Montana Restaurant. The petitioners argued that the court’s previous decision, which ordered the closure of these establishments, was made without giving them a fair hearing. They questioned the authority of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in this matter. They also argued that the agency had no jurisdiction over the licensing of restaurants.
Heated Argument
Chief Justice Isa responded strongly, asserting that the court had made its decision based on environmental concerns and the fundamental rights of the public, including the rights of wildlife in the national park. He also questioned why the restaurant owners continued to operate despite a prior high court ruling against them.
During the hearing, tensions rose as Naeem Bukhari, the lawyer representing the petitioners, engaged in a heated exchange with the Chief Justice. Bukhari defended his clients, arguing that they were pressured into agreeing to the closure. However, the Chief Justice dismissed these claims, reiterating that the court’s decision was in the public’s best interest.
As the hearing concluded, the court reserved its verdict, which will determine the fate of the restaurants in the Margalla Hills National Park. People eagerly await the decision, as it will significantly impact environmental conservation and commercial activities in protected areas.
