ISLAMABAD: A peculiar incident has emerged within the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA), a subsidiary of the Ministry of Science and Technology, where a staff member’s request to decline a promotion has raised eyebrows.
Abdul Hafeez Qambrani, a Field Officer (BS-17) at the PSQCA, has chosen not to pursue a higher-grade promotion, purportedly in order to retain his current post.
Official documents reveal that Qambrani, based in Karachi, submitted a written request dated April 7, 2023, addressed to the Director of the Standard Center. In the letter, Qambrani cites personal reasons and a desire to willingly forgo his eligibility for the upcoming Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) assessment in the year 2023.
Insider sources, however, suggest a different motive behind Qambrani’s decision. It is believed that he wishes to safeguard his role as a field officer, a position considered lucrative within the Authority. The field officer role holds considerable importance, as it involves inspecting selected imports and locally manufactured non-food and food items to ensure compliance with quality and standards set by the PSQCA.
This development comes in the wake of allegations of corruption against Qambrani. He had previously faced significant penalties in 2011 for engaging in corrupt practices. Importers and exporters lodged complaints about his activities, further tarnishing his image and credibility.
Notably, Qambrani’s choice to decline a promotion stands in contrast to the conventional trend observed in government institutions. Historically, individuals in revenue departments, such as Patwaris, have been known to resist higher posts and promotions. This pattern is often attributed to their interest in continuing to receive additional, illicit income through unfair means.
PSQCA officials have confirmed the receipt of Qambrani’s letter, acknowledging his decision to avoid promotion. However, they assert that Qambrani has since been removed from his post due to allegations of corruption and malpractice. This action was taken in response to numerous complaints received from both importers and exporters regarding his activities.
In conclusion, the incident highlights an unusual scenario where a staff member at PSQCA has opted to forgo a promotion, ostensibly to maintain his current position. The backdrop of alleged corruption allegations further adds complexity to this development, underscoring the challenges faced by regulatory bodies in maintaining transparency and integrity within their ranks.
