Islamabad: The Senate Sub-Committee on Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, led by Senator Rubina Qaimkhani, convened a high-level meeting at Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal (PBM) headquarters in Islamabad to conduct an exhaustive administrative audit and policy review. The committee identified significant irregularities, including illegal promotions and financial mismanagement, and warned of potential criminal investigations if issues remain unresolved.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the meeting’s objective was to scrutinize departmental appointments and long-term promotion strategies to uphold institutional integrity. The committee reviewed the PBM’s legal framework and emphasized the need for adherence to the Rules of Business 1973 and the ESTA Code. Allegations were raised regarding 191 illegal promotions and unauthorized payments totaling Rs. 190 million to promoted officers. Financial irregularities were observed, including Rs. 60 million in illegal advance payments and corruption exceeding Rs. 68 crore noted in Quetta’s audit report.

The committee expressed concern over a fake degree case within the organization, initiating an inquiry to determine penalties. Supreme Court judgments were reportedly violated, and parliamentary directives ignored. The committee directed the PBM Managing Director to address professional misconduct and ensure transparency in public money management. A comprehensive report on sub-standard wheelchair procurement was demanded, with potential formal references for audits and investigations should improvements not be made. The session concluded with a call for verification of staff credentials to uphold accountability.