Islamabad: A Joint Investigation Team (JIT) report has revealed significant irregularities and fraud in the One Constitution Avenue project, according to a statement from Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal. He addressed the press alongside Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry, detailing the findings and recommendations to the Federal Cabinet.

According to Radio Pakistan, the JIT, which included representatives from the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), Intelligence Bureau (IB), and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), found manipulation in bidding processes and rule relaxations that favored a specific party. The Capital Development Authority (CDA) was implicated, with requirements like bank guarantees removed to benefit the developer.

The JIT identified Abdul Hafeez Sheikh as the scheme’s mastermind, alongside several former CDA officials. The report recommended blacklisting Sheikh from future projects and legal actions against involved parties. Additionally, it suggested restoring the project to its original hotel purpose and conducting a fresh auction process.

In response to the findings, the government plans to compensate defrauded investors. The JIT also proposed establishing an independent Master Plan Commission and digitizing official records to prevent future irregularities. NAB has been tasked to further investigate and prosecute those responsible.

Attaullah Tarar emphasized the government’s commitment to equality before the law, while Talal Chaudhry noted that the project has seen significant action during Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz governments. The investigation aims to protect bona fide investors and ensure lawful compensation.