Education officials face action over graft

BAHAWALNAGAR:

A corruption scandal in the Bahawalnagar Education Department has led to the initiation of disciplinary action against 140 officials, including the chief executive officer, for their alleged involvement in embezzling Rs500 million.

The scandal has prompted a three-member inquiry team formed by the South Punjab Education secretary to investigate and suggest recovery measures. According to sources, the inquiry has revealed significant lapses.

The sources said the district education authority and the accounts office allegedly colluded to misappropriate funds intended for the renovation of 139 high and higher secondary schools throughout the district.

Instead of allocating the funds for the renovation, officials allegedly collaborated with personnel from the District Accounts Office to process false bills.

The committee's report claims that approximately Rs500 million was embezzled.

During the investigation, committee members visited 20 of the 139 schools and reviewed financial record, revealing that the institutions had not received any of the funding they were supposed to receive.

The inquiry report identifies several key figures, including a former CEO of education, along with account branch clerks Abdul Rahman Shah and Saddam Hussain, head clerk Jameel and Deputy Director of Budget and Finance at the Education Authority, Rashid Jameel.

The report also implicates headmasters of various schools, recommending that all those involved face prosecution under the Punjab Employees Efficiency and Discipline Act (PEEDA).

Member of the Punjab Assembly Sohail Khan, speaking to The Express Tribune, confirmed that Education CEO Shahida Hafeez has been removed from her position. He said anyone found guilty of corruption will face severe consequences.