Rawalpindi Division

Rawalpindi | ReNews Pakistan Government Graduate College Asghar Mall in Rawalpindi has been granted the status of National Heritage. The announcement was made by the Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, during a ceremony held at the college. Speaking on the occasion, the minister said the institution had been included in the National Heritage list in recognition of its historical importance, long standing educational services, and cultural role in the region. He described the college as a symbol of learning and character that reflects Pakistan’s cultural tradition. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi said a formal ceremony would be held soon to officially confer the National Heritage honour on the college. He added that government representatives, educationists, and members of the college community would attend the event. In his address, the federal minister described the college as an institution closely linked with knowledge and cultural identity, and encouraged students by referring to them as the future of the nation. Officials said the National Heritage status would help preserve the historical identity of the college and ensure its protection in line with national heritage policies. Relevant authorities will oversee conservation efforts to safeguard the institution’s historic character.

The Punjab government has established a special cell in Rawalpindi under the Punjab Protection of Immovable Properties Ordinance to fast-track cases involving land grabbed through force, fraud or any unlawful means.

Following special instructions from the Chief Minister of Punjab, City Police Officer Khalid Hamdani, Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema, SSP Operations, the ADCR, divisional SPs and assistant commissioners convened a district-level meeting to review implementation of the ordinance.

Under the new framework, the entire process from filing an application to the final decision will be completed within ninety days. All cases will be handled jointly by the police and the district administration through the Dispute Resolution Committee.

The DRC will hear both parties and, in cases where a settlement is reached, forward its report to the tribunal. The tribunal, comprising former district or high court judges appointed for a three-year term, will issue legal orders based on the DRC’s findings.

If no settlement is reached, the tribunal will begin trial proceedings and may transfer the matter to a civil or sessions court. The DRC will also have the authority to seal a property where necessary and may recommend legal action in cases involving false or frivolous applications.

All applications will be received at the special cell set up in the Deputy Commissioner’s office, where applicants will be required to submit property documents, supporting evidence and details of the party in unlawful possession.

From our Bureau Office