The Punjab government has suspended two land transfer agreements in Cholistan, originally executed by the caretaker administration, pending a comprehensive review. This decision was communicated to the Lahore High Court (LHC) during a hearing concerning a petition filed by over 100 residents of Chak No. 176/DB, who expressed concerns about potential displacement due to these agreements.
Justice Asim Hafeez of the LHC’s Bahawalpur bench noted that the caretaker government may have overstepped its authority by entering into joint venture agreements with M/s Green Corporate Initiatives and the Military Family Rehabilitation Organisation (MFRO) for the transfer of extensive land areas in Cholistan. The court acknowledged the provincial government’s initiative to re-evaluate these agreements and associated notifications issued by the Board of Revenue under the caretaker setup.
The provincial cabinet is expected to deliberate on this matter within the next eight weeks. In the interim, government representatives have assured the court that no adverse action will be taken against the petitioners until a final decision is reached.
This development underscores the importance of adhering to legal protocols in land transfer processes and ensuring that governmental actions align with established mandates.
