ISLAMABAD: Despite a clear directive from the Senate Standing Committee on Science and Technology, the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) is displaying reluctance to probe into the alleged illegal appointments of two officials within its attached department, the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA).
Reliable sources indicate that the Ministry has yet to form a committee and initiate an inquiry into the alleged illegal appointments of Ali Bux Soomro and Mr. Bablani, both holding crucial positions in PSQCA. This reluctance may potentially upset the Standing Committee of the upper house.
As outlined in the minutes of the committee meeting, discussions revolved around the inquiry into the illegal appointments of Ali Bux Soomro and Khalid Ahmad Bulbani in PSQCA. According to PSQCA records, no formal inquiry has been conducted against these individuals. In response, the Committee’s Chair presented an inquiry letter, prompting the Ministry to conduct a detailed investigation and provide concrete responses on two crucial points: (a) reasons for misleading facts in the subject inquiry, and (b) the need for an impartial, transparent inquiry on an urgent basis. The Committee suggested considering the officers in question as Officers on Special Duty (OSD) until the inquiry’s completion. The Ministry was urged to submit the inquiry report within 15 days after the issuance of Standing Committee minutes.
As per documents, a meeting of the Senate is also scheduled on January 26, 2024, which will evaluate the implementation on the committee’s earlier direction which included probe into the illegal appointment of the two officials.
In the last meeting presided over by Senator Sardar Muhammad Shafiq Tarar on November 28, 2023, the Senate Standing Committee on Science and Technology delved into legislative advancements and ministerial concerns, with an emphasis on transparency and compliance.
Key discussions encompassed critical matters within MoST, with special attention given to departments operating without permanent heads, a concern raised by Senator Mushtaq Ahmed. The Committee underscored the urgency of resolving administrative challenges stemming from this situation.
The meeting rigorously reviewed recommendations from prior sessions, emphasizing swift implementation and adherence, particularly in the context of pending Departmental Promotion Committees (DPCs) and recruitment procedures, notably in PSQCA. The Committee urged the timely resolution of staffing issues.
Initiating an inquiry into alleged irregular appointments in PSQCA, the Committee directed MoST to conduct a comprehensive investigation. During the inquiry’s pendency, the implicated officers were assigned as OSDs, with a detailed report expected within 15 days.
Expressing apprehensions about potential issues in the ongoing recruitment process, the Committee emphasized compliance with prior recommendations and called for the suspension of the process until formalities are met.
Furthermore, the Committee directed the prompt recovery of Rs.2.5 million in unjustified retirement benefits from DG.PHA, mandating adherence to regulations and requiring a compliance report within a week. A comprehensive investigation report is also anticipated.
The meeting concluded with proposals for sweeping legislative amendments, advocating the extension of principles to other councils. Concerns were raised about the continuous absence of the Minister In-charge from these sessions, underscoring the importance of timely actions, legal compliance, and transparent inquiries within MoST.
