Karachi May 6, 2025: Following orders from Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Haider Shah, the inquiry into the illegal demolition of the historic Kharas House has been completed, revealing serious violations by officers of the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) and the building’s owner.
Based on the inquiry report, First Information Reports (FIRs) have been ordered against SBCAs Director South Ashfaq Hussain, Deputy Director South Agha Kashif, and the property owner involved in the demolition. Both SBCA officers have also been suspended from their positions.
Furthermore, a show-cause notice has been issued to the Director General of the SBCA, holding the authoritys top leadership accountable for negligence and dereliction of duty.
The report, submitted to the Chief Secretary by the Commissioner Karachi, highlights that the demolition was carried out deliberately during Eid holidays in violation of existing laws. It also states that the SBCA officials intentionally ignored due procedures and failed to consult the Department of Culture and Heritage, which was described as a “serious oversight.”
The inquiry further reveals collusion between the building owner and public officials, stating that a court order was misrepresented during the demolition process.
Reacting to the findings, Chief Secretary Asif Haider Shah has ordered a comprehensive survey and mapping of all historical buildings in Sindh. He also instructed the Culture Department to establish a vigilant oversight mechanism to protect the province’s heritage sites from future violations.
The illegal demolition of Kharas House, a landmark of historical significance, has sparked public outrage and renewed calls for stricter preservation laws and accountability in urban planning.
