NAB abolishes open file system for housing societies

Allotments to be made through documents issued by govt, RUDA

LAHORE:

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Lahore has abolished the open file system for housing societies, ordering that future plot allotments be made only through allotment papers issued by the Punjab government and the Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA).

The decision to regulate the housing sector was announced by NAB Lahore Director General Amjad Majid Olakh during a public hearing at the bureau's headquarters.

The session, attended by over 200 affected people from various housing societies, saw DG Olakh addressing their grievances and issuing directives to resolve their issues.

The DG highlighted that the step was aimed to eliminate fraudulent practices linked to open files and ensure transparency in property transactions. "Housing societies will now issue plots through secure papers, ending the open file system," he emphasised.

To facilitate communication with victims of housing scams, NAB Lahore also ordered the formation of a dedicated WhatsApp group for ensuring timely updates on case progress.

The official informed the complainants that an investigation team had facilitated the transfer of plots and flats to 400 victims in one scheme with 75% of construction work completed under the bureau's oversight.

The victims of another scheme have received 40% of their claims so far. Despite four unsuccessful auctions of seized properties, NAB plans a fifth attempt to ensure funds are recovered and distributed among victims.

One case has been transferred from NAB Karachi to Lahore upon victims' request, at least 894 claims have been received and legal proceedings against absconding suspects are under way.

In another case, a reference is set to be filed in court and the main suspect, Imran, declared a fugitive, is being pursued through Interpol for extradition.

The case of one housing society with fewer than 100 complaints was referred to the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) and inspector general of police.

DG Olakh said the bureau had resolved cases involving over 15,500 victims this year. "These public hearings aim to bridge the gap between citizens and NAB for ensuring swift justice," he concluded.