The anti-encroachment operation along Swat’s riverbanks has come under fire amid accusations of selective enforcement, as action against properties owned by influential individuals, including a PML-N central senior vice president, Engineer Amir Muqam, who was allegedly halted while ordinary citizens saw their structures demolished without hesitation.

On Monday, the second day of the operation, the district administration demolished over 25 illegal constructions, including hotels, in areas such as Fizagat and the Bypass.

However, the operation reportedly paused when it reached a hotel linked to the Muqam.

Sources said that while a portion of the hotel’s boundary wall was initially brought down, the operation was suspended following intervention by the hotel management, who presented legal documents, including No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and ownership papers.

The operation remained on hold for nearly four hours, during which various individuals displayed stay orders and other documents.

Media coverage of the incident prompted the administration to resume the operation, but full action was not taken against the said property.

Amir Muqam slams operation

In a strongly worded response, Muqam condemned the demolition of part of his property, calling it a clear case of political victimization.

He accused the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial government of targeting him and using the encroachment drive to settle political scores.

Muqam claimed that his hotel is fully legal, with all required documentation, including ownership deeds, NOCs, and an approved building plan. “Destroying my property under the guise of removing encroachments is a politically motivated act,” he said, adding that he intends to pursue legal action against what he termed an illegal and discriminatory move.

His statement has triggered a political stir, with several quarters raising concerns about the fairness and transparency of the operation.

Authorities defend their action

Meanwhile, the district administration stated that the operation aims to clear illegal structures from riverbanks and that demarcation work is ongoing to prevent future encroachments.

Officials maintained that the operation will continue without discrimination.