Islamabad: The Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, chaired by Syed Rafiullah, convened to address multiple issues, including the Balochistan coal mine tragedy and the devolution of the Workers Welfare Fund. The committee recommended revisiting mining leases, registering mine workers, and holding a Council of Common Interests meeting to discuss the Workers Welfare Fund.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the committee expressed sorrow over the Balochistan coal mine accident and criticized regulatory failures. It highlighted the unregistered status of many mine workers, which denies families compensation after tragedies. The committee insisted on worker registration for those employed over three months and called for better provincial coordination.

The committee also pointed out the lack of emergency care in mining areas, a long-standing issue yet to be resolved. It emphasized that safety protocols must be visibly enforced. Concerns about the Workers Welfare Fund were also raised, with calls for a forensic audit and interest-bearing accounts for the fund’s deposits.

Additionally, the committee discussed a Federal Investigation Agency inquiry into the Protectorate of Emigrants, with plans for digitization to curb malpractice. The meeting was attended by several Members of the National Assembly and senior government officials.