KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) last week declared the sealing of Alvi Dental, the clinic owned by former President Dr. Arif Alvi, by the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), as unlawful. In a detailed 13-page judgment, the court criticized SBCA's actions, citing procedural violations and lack of legal notice as major flaws in the authority's decision-making process.
The court ordered the immediate de-sealing of the clinic and directed the petitioner to submit a formal application to SBCA for a change in the plot’s status within ten days. The SBCA has been tasked with deciding on the matter within 45 days, as stipulated by the court.
Allegations of non-compliance with court orders
Despite the court ruling, Dr. Alvi's son Awab Alvi in a social media post has alleged that the SBCA is using delayed tactics to implement the court order. He has claimed that although the certified copy of the judgment was submitted to SBCA on November 26, the clinic remains sealed, marking 59 days since the initial closure. According to him, the delay stems from bureaucratic inaction and politically motivated interference.
He highlighted that the judgment clearly categorizes medical and dental clinics as permissible uses for residential properties under the Karachi Building & Town Planning Regulations of 2022 (Article 19-2.2.2). The court’s findings also pointed to several procedural lapses by SBCA, including the lack of prior notices or opportunities for the clinic to address alleged violations.
Next steps
While the SBCA has yet to issue a public response, the petitioner has signaled intentions to pursue legal remedies, including possible contempt proceedings, should the order remain unimplemented. The case continues to attract attention, given its implications for both governance and the political undercurrents alleged by the complainants.
Background
The clinic was sealed in October 2024 on allegations of unauthorized commercial activity in a residential area. Dr. Alvi contested the action, arguing it was a misuse of authority and lacked due process.
NOTE: This story remains under development, pending further updates from SBCA or legal proceedings.