The luxury residential complex One Constitution Avenue in Islamabad has become the center of a growing political and administrative controversy following a late-night eviction operation that triggered both domestic and diplomatic concern.
The dispute has drawn in prominent figures, including journalist and former PEMRA chief Absar Alam and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, with Alam accusing Naqvi, in a YouTube vlog, of using the establishment’s name for his own means.
On May 1, law enforcement personnel, including Islamabad Police and Rangers, carried out an operation at the residential buildings, reportedly to enforce court orders related to lease and ownership issues. Residents, including diplomats, overseas Pakistanis, and members of the business community, were given a short notice to vacate their apartments, late in the night.
The manner of the operation, particularly its timing and scale, has drawn criticism. Diplomatic sources indicate that at least four European countries raised concerns through formal channels, citing the treatment of foreign nationals and the potential impact on investor confidence.
Amid the fallout, Absar Alam, who has also stated he owns a one-bedroom apartment in the building, made a series of strong allegations, directly criticising Naqvi and the manner in which the operation was carried out.
“Mohsin Naqvi is behind all of this because he’s giving the impression that the Army is with him,” Alam alleged.
Referring to the broader political context, he said: “At a time when Pakistan is getting appreciation internationally, and the prime minister and field marshal are doing well, this action in the heart of Islamabad sends the wrong message.”
He further claimed that the operation bypassed standard procedures: “Rangers and police were used to raid the apartment building and take control, even though the written court order had not come, only a verbal instruction was cited.”
Highlighting the diplomatic fallout, Alam added that four European countries have already asked Pakistan what is going on. He went on to say that diplomats live in that building and how would Naqvi justify it.
In a sharply worded remark, he questioned authority and ownership of the state’s actions: “Is this country Mohsin Naqvi’s?”
Accusing the minister of leveraging state institutions, he said: “You’re using the fauj to get what you want.”
He further alleged that the eviction may be part of a larger, undisclosed plan for the site: “There is clearly a bigger plan for this entire area, and Mohsin Naqvi needs to tell the public what that is.”
Mohsin Naqvi has not responded as of now.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had already intervened before Alam released his vlog. In response to the backlash, PM ordered a temporary halt to further evictions and formed a committee to review the matter.
The controversy surrounding One Constitution Avenue has raised broader questions about governance, property rights, and the use of state machinery in high-profile disputes. Legal experts and policy observers have pointed to concerns over procedural fairness, investor protection, and the role of enforcement agencies in civil matters.
As the government-led review begins, the case is likely to remain under close scrutiny, both domestically and internationally, given its implications for Pakistan’s regulatory environment and urban development framework.
