Karachi (HRNW): An accountability court in Karachi has dismissed a contempt of court petition filed by Bahria Town Karachi against the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
The court ruled that the FBR is authorized to continue tax recovery proceedings in accordance with the law and that no deliberate violation of court orders by the department was established.
During the hearing, Bahria Town Karachi’s counsel argued that NAB had sought and obtained court permission for the temporary attachment of 527 kanals of land in Rawalpindi under the Anti-Money Laundering Act.
The counsel stated that after the attachment, the property had come under judicial protection and that the FBR’s auction proceedings for recovery of tax dues amounted to interference with the court’s order and contempt of court.
The FBR’s counsel informed the court that the department had initiated proceedings for recovery of outstanding tax liabilities through legal procedures and, after becoming aware of the court-related matter, halted the process and approached the court.
According to the FBR’s counsel, the department had sought formal permission from the court to recover more than Rs. 26.46 billion in tax liabilities.
The Special Prosecutor NAB informed the court that the investigating officer had withdrawn the temporary attachment in accordance with the law and directions of the relevant authority.
The court observed that prior permission from the court is required for temporary attachment under the Anti-Money Laundering Act; however, the law does not require fresh court approval for withdrawal of such attachment.
The court further stated that property attached under the Anti-Money Laundering Act remains in the custody of the investigating officer and cannot be considered as being under judicial custody.
The court concluded that after NAB withdrew the attachment order, the previous court order had become ineffective, and the FBR remained legally authorized to continue tax recovery proceedings.
Support HRNW
Support independent journalism promoting human rights, rule of law, accountability, transparency, and public-interest reporting.
👉 Support HRNW: https://www.hrnww.com/?page_id=1083
Disclaimer
This report is based on court proceedings, arguments presented by the parties, and available judicial information. All parties involved have the right to present their legal defense, and final decisions shall be made according to the law. HRNW remains committed to impartial, accurate, and responsible journalism.
