Sadiq Sanjrani’s brother allotted govt residence for 27 years

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court has issued a contempt notice to Razzaq Sanjrani, the 33-year-old brother of Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani, for failing to appear in court in a case related to the allotment of a Category-1 government residence for him in Islamabad for 27 years.

Razzaq Sanjrani is facing the legal battle over his eligibility for a government residence, a privilege typically reserved for Grade-21 and Grade-22 officers.

The Islamabad High Court had twice issued notices to Razzaq Sanjrani to respond to the case, but he had not provided a reply.

IHC judge Justice Babar Sattar has once again issued a contempt notice to Razzaq Sanjrani, asking him to appear in the court in person.

The court has raised questions in its order, asking why Razzaq Sanjrani, has been allocated government residence typically reserved a Grade-22 officer.

The curt said that despite two notices, Razzaq Sanjrani had not responded, prompting the issuance of the new contempt notice.

Justice Babar Sattar noted that the allocation of Grade 22 residence to the Senate chairman’s brother raises concerns about favoritism and the misuse of power.

“Razzaq Sanjrani is now given the opportunity to submit his response to address the concerns raised and to ensure a fair trial,” the court said.

The court order has also sought to determine how Razzaq Sanjrani qualifies for a Grade-22 residence and has asked him to provide answers in response to the show-cause notice.

The court has stated in its order that Category-1 residences in Islamabad are designated for Grade-21 and Grade-22 officers. However, Razzaq Sanjrani has been allotted Category-1 residence as an MD Saindak Metals Limited Balochistan.

Razzaq Sanjrani has been granted Category-1 residency from 2019 to 2046, according to the court order.

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The order also highlights the failure of the Ministry of Housing, Estate Office, and Assistant Attorney General to satisfy the court why Razzaq Sanjrani, despite being a civilian, was eligible for a Category-1 residence.

According to the court order, the State Office officials have been unable to explain how Razzaq Sanjrani qualifies as a Grade-22 officer.

Justice Babar Sattar mentioned that this is why the court has issued a show-cause notice for contempt in light of Razzaq Sanjrani’s eligibility for a Category-1 residence.

The court observed that it cannot be assumed that the Senate chairman would use his influence to provide convenience to his brother, as it goes against the principles of fairness and impartiality.

“Razzaq Sanjrani has been given the opportunity to submit a response to fulfill the requirements of a fair trial and eliminate any perceived influence due to his familial ties,” the court said.

The case is scheduled for further hearing on September 22 at the Islamabad High Court.