KATI, ombudsman form joint committee

Property tax disputes, corruption claims, and policy issues to be addressed through fast-track complaint mechanism

KARACHI:

Advisor and Regional Director to the Sindh Ombudsman, Shoaib Ahmed Siddiqui, announced the formation of a joint committee between the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) and the Ombudsman's office to swiftly address industrialists' grievances.

He said complaints lodged through KATI will be prioritised, covering property tax disputes and matters involving all provincial departments. During his visit to KATI, Siddiqui urged industrialists to submit complaints without hesitation.

The ceremony was attended by KATI President Junaid Naqi, Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya, Senior Vice President Ejaz Ahmed Sheikh, Vice President Tariq Hussain, KITE Limited CEO Zahid Saeed, former Chairman Ehtishamuddin, Sindh Ombudsman Assistant Registrar Abdul Shakoor, and other officials.

Siddiqui said that since Muhammad Sohail Rajput took charge as Sindh Ombudsman, public awareness has grown, and complaint resolution has sped up. Currently, 19 regional offices handle 9,000–10,000 complaints annually, with 85% resolved successfully. He noted the Ombudsman holds powers equal to a high court judge and can take Suo Moto action.

KATI President Naqi said awareness of the Ombudsman's authority remains low, and many industrialists avoid individual complaints out of fear of retaliation. He claimed corruption is rampant, with bribes demanded for even minor administrative tasks, discouraging investment. Naqi contrasted this with Punjab, where digitisation has simplified processes and reduced corruption, prompting some industrialists to shift operations there or abroad.

Chhaya said conducting business in Karachi is increasingly difficult. He cited Karachi's 90% share of the Sindh Revenue Board's Rs306 billion collection but said industry sees no return. Karachi, he noted, is now the world's fourth most polluted city.

KITE Limited CEO Saeed said Karachi generates over $17 billion of Pakistan's $32 billion exports, contributing 54% to the Export Development Fund without receiving investment benefits. He stressed technology adoption as vital for development.