Absence of civic bodies impacts citizens

Crime rate soars by 100pc after dissolution of crime control committee

RAWALPINDI:

The absence of key civic committees in Rawalpindi has resulted in worsening issues such as fleecing, increased crime rates, and other matters, causing hardship for the citizens.

The bodies include price control, crime control, market, reconciliation, overseas relief, and local zakat committees among others.

Despite the passage of 15 months, these committees have not been formed.

According to sources, the non-existence of Baitul Maal committees has paralysed the government's financial assistance system for families living below the poverty line in the district.

The absence of the committee responsible to address overseas Pakistanis’ complaints has led to delays in resolving cases related to the possession of properties worth hundreds of millions of rupees.

In the absence of these committees, the deputy commissioner (DC) has taken on the responsibility of being the administrator of all 22 committees and the district council.

However, due to other administrative commitments, the DC has been unable to convene the meetings of these committees, leading to a breakdown in addressing public problems, financial aid, and reconciliation processes for the past 15 months.

According to the DC Office, these committees were dissolved after the establishment of the caretaker government in Punjab on April 15, 2022. Consequently, their halt has affected various services.

The lack of local zakat committees has resulted in the deprivation of financial assistance, scholarships for eligible students with low-income backgrounds, and marriage grants for underprivileged girls.

The dissolution of the District Crime Control Committee has contributed to a 100 per cent increase in the crime rate in Rawalpindi district, while the District Price Control Committee's disbandment has led to rising commodity prices.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 31^st, 2023.