ISLAMABAD; Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi has recused himself from hearing the high-profile case concerning the auction of Bahria Town’s property, directing that the matter be returned to the original bench for further proceedings.
A full bench of the Supreme Court, headed by CJP Afridi, took up the case on Wednesday. During the hearing, the Chief Justice remarked that it would be “more appropriate” for the bench that had earlier been seized with the matter to continue its hearing, given its prior familiarity with the facts and developments.
Bahria Town’s counsel informed the court that the Islamabad High Court (IHC) had recently issued its detailed judgment in the matter. He sought permission to submit an additional written reply based on this judgment to address the new legal and factual points that have emerged.
Granting the request, the Supreme Court allowed Bahria Town to file its additional reply and adjourned further proceedings for an indefinite period.
The dispute revolves around the auction of properties belonging to Bahria Town, a major real estate developer in Pakistan that has faced multiple legal challenges over allegations of illegal land acquisition, regulatory violations, and unpaid dues to government authorities.
The case has drawn considerable public attention due to its implications for urban development, property rights, and corporate accountability.
This is not the first time the matter has experienced delays; over the years, it has moved between various benches of the Supreme Court, often due to procedural issues or changes in the composition of the judiciary.
The recusal of the Chief Justice signals yet another procedural turn in a case that has been closely watched by investors, affected landowners, and legal analysts alike.
