Pak CJ's son seeks FIR against real estate tycoon

Pakistan Supreme Court Chief Justice Iftikhar Choudhry's son, who is facing accusations of receiving huge bribes from a real estate tycoon, filed an application in court on Monday seeking the registration of an FIR against the businessman for making objectionable allegations.

The application, filed by Arsalan Iftikhar's counsel in the supreme court, called for the registration of an FIR against Malik Riaz Hussain, owner of Bahria Town real estate firm, for alleging that he possessed photos and video footage of Iftikhar's visits to London that were allegedly paid for by the tycoon's relatives.

Iftikhar filed the application after TV anchors said on a talk show on Sunday night that Hussain had photos and videos of the chief justice's son's visits to London during 2009-11.

Iftikhar allegedly received Rs 400 million from Hussain to influence several cases in the apex court.

Iftikhar contended these allegations were "objectionable" and amounted to "character assassination".

He said Hussain should be directed to produce any evidence he possessed.

He asked the court to direct the authorities to register an FIR and a criminal case against Hussain.

He further demanded that Hussain should be arrested when he appears in the apex court.

Iftikhar also asked the court to direct authorities to provide him security as he had concerns about his safety.

The chief justice initiated suo motu proceedings against Iftikhar but later recused himself from the case against his son last week following criticism from legal experts.

According to media reports based on documents in Hussain's possession, expenses for several trips by Iftikhar to London and Monte Carlo were paid by members of the tycoon's family.

Most of the cases in the apex court involving Hussain and Bahria Town are related to alleged irregularities in real estate deals.

The powerful businessman has close ties with politicians and the military.

Hussain was being treated for a medical condition abroad and is expected to return to Pakistan today.