ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of National Food Security & Research has recently levied serious charges of misconduct and inefficiency against Muhammad Qasim Kakar, holding dual positions within the Department of Plant Protection (DPP). In a detailed communication issued on February 1, 2024, Dr. Allah Ditta Abid, Director General of DPP, addressed Mr. Kakar, outlining alleged infractions during his tenure and prompting him to respond within three days.
The memorandum delineates several instances where Mr. Kakar purportedly failed to fulfill his duties, displaying disregard for prescribed protocols. Accusations include neglecting assigned tasks such as ensuring the auction of condemned vehicles, overseeing the repair of official vehicles for locust surveillance, and issuing extension orders for contract employees. Additionally, Mr. Kakar stands accused of non-compliance with transfer orders and disciplinary proceedings against subordinates, exhibiting favoritism and nepotism in administrative matters.
Furthermore, Mr. Kakar is alleged to have neglected his responsibilities as Director of Quarantine, failing to conduct technical audits of processing facilities for exports and to draft and submit technical dossiers for potential exportable commodities. These purported lapses are said to have led to a decline in registrations of Pakistani establishments with international regulatory bodies, resulting in financial losses.
Moreover, Mr. Kakar is accused of unauthorized meetings with importers and treatment providers, allegedly relaxing phytosanitary import conditions without proper authorization. These actions, it is claimed, contravene established regulations and endanger domestic agriculture, biosecurity, and natural resources.
Significantly, it is highlighted in the communication that Mr. Kakar obtained his deputation in the DPP from the Agriculture Research Institute, Balochistan, allegedly concealing politically pertinent facts regarding his qualifications and experience. The alleged mismatch between his qualifications and those required for his position raises legal concerns, with a pending Quo Warranto Writ petition challenging his appointment before the Sindh High Court.
In response to these allegations, Mr. Kakar has been summoned to provide an explanation within three days, with potential disciplinary proceedings looming. Suggestions for his withdrawal from additional responsibilities and transfer to his parent organization have been proposed due to alleged misconduct and inefficiency.
Meanwhile, reports suggest efforts to facilitate the appointment of Mr. Javid Tareen from the Balochistan Agriculture Research Institute as Director General of DPP, despite concerns over his qualifications. Allegations of political motivation and interference in administrative appointments have surfaced, prompting internal disquiet among DPP officers and officials.
Efforts to obtain comments from ministry officials regarding these allegations were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
