Official seeks probe into 'illegal' recruitment

The Rawalpindi division health services director has requested a provincial-level investigation into the alleged illegal recruitment of 1,500 sanitary patrols by the District Health Authority (DHA).

According to sources, the action follows the failure of a three-member inquiry committee to submit a fact-finding report within the given timeframe, raising concerns about possible delaying tactics.

Rawalpindi Division Health Services Director Dr Ijaz Ahmed Ghallo initiated the move after receiving a written complaint. In response, Dr Ghallo wrote to the Secretary of Primary and Secondary Health Care Punjab, highlighting the situation and the need for further investigation.

The initial inquiry committee, formed to probe the recruitment issue, was led by the CEO of the District Health Authority Jhelum, with the CIO of the District Health Authority Chakwal and the Attock District Health Officer as members. However, the committee failed to submit its report within the stipulated seven days, even after multiple reminders over ten days.

In his letter, Dr Ghallo emphasised that the delay could be a deliberate attempt by the committee to stall the investigation.