Taking notice of account opening for the construction of two dams by the Ministry of Finance, the apex court summoned the finance secretary today (Tuesday). Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar, hearing a case of property dispute, remarked that the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) was trying to give an impression that they have opened this account, while this account is set up by the Supreme Court.
The Chief Justice said he is receiving messages that the people have money and want to deposit it in the account for the dams'' construction. He, however, said that they don''t like to put money in the government account for the dams as they (people) say they have no trust in the government.
The finance secretary was summoned to explain whether the federal government has opened any account for the dams. The court asked the attorney general to inform the court about the account after discussing the matter with the Prime Minister.
The CJP said the SBP has disappointed the court as the account was opened after three days.
The Chief Justice said: "People are ready to sell even their clothes and shoes to contribute to the account for dams." The Supreme Court would not allow anyone to misappropriate funds. The audit would be carried for the dams account. The future chief justices would also safeguard this account, Justice Saqib said.
In pursuance of Supreme Court Order dated 04.07.2018 regarding construction of dams of Diamer-Bhasha and Mohmand, the Finance Division, Government of Pakistan, has opened account under title "Diamer Basha and Mohmand Dam Fund-2018" bearing account No. 03-593-299999-001-4 and IBAN PK06SBPP0035932999990014 for raising funds for the construction of abovementioned dams in the country.
The payments in this fund will be received at all branches of the State Bank of Pakistan, all treasuries and branches of National Bank of Pakistan and all other scheduled banks.
The fund may receive donations from both domestic and international donors and contributions from abroad which will be received at all branches of abovementioned banks where such branches exist. In other foreign countries, contributions will be received at Pakistan Missions and remitted to the State Bank of Pakistan which would prescribe necessary accounting procedure.