ISLAMABAD: The Senate Sub-Committee on Devolution convened at the Parliament House to assess compliance with the 18th Constitutional Amendment and the devolution of subjects to provincial authorities. Chaired by Senator Zamir Hussain Ghumro, the meeting focused on reviewing reports about federal institutions managing provincial and Council of Common Interests (CCI) subjects.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the gathering included Senators Jan Muhammad Buledi, Poonjo Bheel, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and senior officials from various ministries and divisions. The Sub-Committee examined compliance reports from the Permanent Secretariat of the CCI, Cabinet Division, and Establishment Division, alongside audited expenditure details from the Auditor General of Pakistan concerning ministries and organizations maintained by the Federal Government since 2011.

The Sub-Committee underscored the importance of the 18th Constitutional Amendment in delineating responsibilities between the Federation and provinces. It stressed that matters pertaining to provincial and CCI jurisdictions should adhere to constitutional provisions. Officials briefed the Committee on the status of federal institutions involved in policing, broadcasting, and telecasting, emphasizing the need for alignment with Article 159 of the Constitution.

The meeting also delved into the privatization of distribution companies (DISCOs) and the role of federal institutions in the Thar coal project. The Committee urged the Privatization Commission to ensure transparent processes, particularly concerning provincial functions. Additionally, the Committee reviewed the provision of electricity from Thar coal to local communities and the national grid, commending the Sindh Government’s efforts in advancing the project.

The Chairman directed relevant ministries to submit comprehensive proposals and compliance reports, urging timely coordination with provincial authorities. The Committee stressed the need for constitutional audits to address federal expenditures, highlighting the economic challenges faced by the country.