RAWALPINDI: The Lahore High Court (Rawalpindi Bench) has referred a high-profile dispute concerning the 19th century historic Flashman’s Hotel in the city to mediation, aiming to resolve the matter through a structured and time-bound process.

In a detailed order issued on April 22, Justice Jawad Hassan disposed of multiple connected petitions, observing that the controversy—centred on the proposed demolition and land acquisition of the iconic hotel—raises complex legal and factual questions best suited for alternative dispute resolution.

The issue is between Associated Hotel and the government as the latter wants to take over it’s possession along with the structure.

The petitioner, Associated Hotels of Pakistan Limited, argued that any demolition of the 19th-century structure would erase an important part of the region’s cultural heritage and violate constitutional protections. The hotel, established in 1888, has historically hosted prominent figures including Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah and other national leaders.

Government representatives, however, supported mediation, emphasizing its effectiveness in resolving disputes involving competing claims and public interest. They cited recent judicial precedents endorsing alternative dispute resolution mechanisms in Pakistan.

With consensus from both sides, the court appointed the Secretary, Ministry of Law and Justice, as the mediator to oversee negotiations between all stakeholders, including federal and provincial authorities, PTDC, and the district administration. The mediator has been tasked with facilitating discussions on key issues such as land acquisition, compensation, land use, and heritage preservation.

The court wanted the mediation process completed within 45 days and stressed that proceedings must remain transparent, participatory, and fair. All parties have been instructed to cooperate fully and avoid delaying tactics.

In its ruling, the court highlighted mediation as a “paradigm shift” in dispute resolution, noting its potential to reduce litigation costs, expedite outcomes, and encourage collaborative solutions in complex public-interest matters.

Published in Dawn, May 3rd, 2026