The Supreme Court on Saturday directed Lahore Development Authority (LDA) former director general Ahad Cheema to return funds he had accumulated beyond his stated sources of income.
The directives were made as Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar heard a case about LDA City housing scheme at the Lahore Registry of the apex court.
“First Orange Line Train was ruined and now LDA City,” the CJP asked Cheema as proceedings began.
“What was LDA’s connection to Paragon City that an agreement was made? You were the government’s chosen person. You received salary at the Bhikki Power Plant,” he added.
In response, the former LDA director general informed the court that he drew a salary of Rs1.4 million after he was appointed at the post.
“Who is this person whose salary was raised from Rs100,000 to Rs1.4 million,” the top judge inquired.
“What political favours did you do that this salary was granted? If you were such a chosen person then the chief minister would have paid you right out of his own pocket.”
CJP Nisar ordered Cheema to return the funds he had accumulated beyond his stated sources of income and warned that his property would be seized if he did not return the money.
The incumbent LDA director general was also directed to provide recommendations on LDA City.
