ISLAMABAD: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has issued firmdirectives to ensure robust protection of property rights for overseasPakistanis in the federal capital, declaring that any complaints of illegaloccupation must be resolved by the Deputy Commissioner Islamabad withinseven days. In a recent statement shared on social media platform X, theminister highlighted the valuable contributions of expatriate investmentsto the national economy, particularly in Islamabad, and vowed zerotolerance for encroachments on their assets. This initiative aims to fostera secure and investor-friendly environment amid growing concerns overproperty disputes affecting non-resident Pakistanis who channel significantremittances into real estate.
Overseas Pakistanis have long played a pivotal role in bolsteringPakistan’s economy through remittances, which consistently rank among thehighest foreign exchange inflows. In recent years, many have investedheavily in Islamabad’s property market, drawn by its planned urbaninfrastructure, security, and potential for appreciation. However, reportsof illegal occupations, land grabbing, and delays in dispute resolutionhave deterred further investments and eroded confidence. Minister Naqvi’sannouncement addresses these challenges directly, emphasizing thatexpatriate assets represent hard-earned wealth and merit immediatesafeguards to encourage continued capital inflow.
The directive mandates the Deputy Commissioner Islamabad to adjudicatecomplaints related to property encroachments on overseas Pakistanis’holdings within a strict seven-day timeframe. This timeline represents asignificant shift from previous bureaucratic delays that often prolongedlitigation and allowed illegal occupants to maintain control. By imposingthis binding obligation, the federal government seeks to streamlineadministrative processes and ensure swift justice, thereby reducing therisk of prolonged disputes that could lead to financial losses for ownersresiding abroad.
Minister Naqvi underscored that overseas Pakistanis’ investments in thecapital are not only welcomed but considered highly commendable for theircontribution to national development. He stressed the need for prompt andtransparent action in all property-related cases to prevent misuse orillegal seizure. This policy aligns with broader governmental efforts toprotect investor rights, particularly in urban centers like Islamabad,where real estate has seen substantial growth driven by domestic andforeign capital. The minister’s assurance signals a proactive stanceagainst land mafias and opportunistic encroachments that have plaguedvarious sectors.
This move comes at a time when Pakistan is actively promoting diasporaengagement through initiatives such as the Roshan Digital Account, whichfacilitates remote property purchases and repatriable investments. Despitethese facilitations, anecdotal evidence and media reports have highlightedpersistent issues of property grabbing in Islamabad, where absentee ownersface challenges in monitoring and defending their holdings. The seven-daydecision rule is expected to act as a deterrent to potential encroachersand provide expatriates with a reliable mechanism for redressal.
Experts view the directive as a step toward enhancing rule of law inproperty matters, which could positively impact foreign direct investmentin real estate. Islamabad’s property market has benefited from overseasinflows, contributing to urban expansion and economic activity. Byprioritizing the protection of such investments, the government aims tosustain this momentum while addressing longstanding grievances. The policyalso reflects a commitment to equity, ensuring that citizens abroad receivethe same level of administrative efficiency and security as local residents.
Implementation of the directive will require coordination between theInterior Ministry, district administration, and relevant law enforcementagencies to enforce decisions promptly. Observers anticipate that effectiveexecution could serve as a model for similar protections in otherprovinces, where overseas Pakistanis own significant properties. Theminister’s public commitment via social media also enhances transparency,allowing expatriates to hold authorities accountable.
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In conclusion, Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s firm stance reinforces thegovernment’s resolve to safeguard the economic interests of its diaspora.By enforcing rapid resolution of property complaints, Islamabad positionsitself as a safer destination for overseas investments, potentiallyunlocking greater remittance flows and development contributions in thelong term.
Source:https://24newshd.tv/27-Jan-2026/naqvi-pledges-action-within-7-days-overseas-pakistanis-property-disputes
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