The Punjab Information Commission (PIC) has come under scrutiny following a recent audit report exposing illegal recruitment practices and financial mismanagement, resulting in a staggering loss of PKR 32 million to the government treasury. The revelations have raised serious concerns about accountability and governance within the organization.
Audit Findings Reveal Irregularities
The audit report outlines numerous irregularities in PIC’s hiring practices from 2014 to 2022. It highlights that individuals exceeding the permissible age limit were recruited during this period, leading to a financial loss of PKR 23 million. Such blatant disregard for hiring regulations not only drained public funds but also tarnished the integrity of the recruitment process.
Non-Transparent Appointments Add to the Loss
In addition to age-related irregularities, the report flagged the appointment of an additional director as lacking transparency. This specific appointment accounted for a further loss of PKR 8 million. Such practices suggest deep-rooted governance issues within the PIC, further undermining its credibility.
Unauthorized Driver Hiring Raises Concerns
Between 2014 and 2022, unauthorized hiring of drivers resulted in an additional financial loss of PKR 1.365 million. This irregularity further compounds the growing list of questionable practices within the commission.
Lack of Accountability
What is most concerning is PIC’s apparent failure to provide any justification or explanation for these illegal appointments and financial discrepancies. Despite the audit findings, no substantial measures appear to have been taken to rectify or address these issues, leaving the public with unanswered questions.
The audit findings not only expose severe lapses in governance but also call for urgent reforms to ensure transparency, accountability, and better management of public resources within the Punjab Information Commission.