The Ombudsperson Secretariat of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has reported significant progress in resolving property-related disputes, settling cases worth Rs 23.3 billion over the past nine months, according to its latest performance report released on April 6.
The report highlights that a total of 9,970 hearings were conducted during this period, alongside the formation of more than 150 special commissions to address inheritance and other complex property disputes. These efforts ensured transparent and efficient resolution of cases across the province.
Human Rights Coordinator Dr. Rabia Gul stated that the institution’s performance improved markedly following the appointment of Provincial Ombudsperson Ms. Rabab Mehdi. Monthly decisions rose from just 20 in July to 221 by March 2026, reflecting enhanced efficiency and responsiveness.
Between July and December, disputes worth Rs 13.6 billion were resolved through 96 commissions, while an additional Rs 9.7 billion worth of cases were settled during January and February 2026 through 54 commissions.
A key development during this period was the introduction of open public hearings at the divisional level, held in the presence of senior officials, including police officers and commissioners. These hearings brought justice directly to citizens. In Peshawar, 2,500 participants attended, with 1,600 inheritance cases and 900 human rights cases addressed, achieving a 98% resolution rate.
Similar outreach efforts in Abbottabad, Mardan, and Malakand saw strong public participation, with hundreds of complaints resolved on the spot and new cases registered. In Abbottabad alone, property worth over Rs 50 million was successfully recovered.
The report also notes improved case management, with hearing dates now being issued within 15 to 20 days due to the daily listing of up to 90 cases. More than 150 field commissions were deployed to ensure timely resolution and enforcement of inheritance rights.
Notably, around 70% of cases were resolved through reconciliation, helping restore family ties, while an active referral system facilitated the resolution of 6,895 additional cases through relevant institutions.
Provincial Ombudsperson Ms. Rabab Mehdi reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to safeguarding citizens’ rights, particularly women, and ensuring access to justice through efficient and people-centric mechanisms.
