ISLAMABAD: The Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development has called for a financial audit and immediate action to resolve longstanding issues surrounding the Workers Welfare Fund (WWF). The committee, led by Chair Syed Rafiullah, expressed dissatisfaction with the delay in addressing the constitutional and administrative status of the fund, which impacts Pakistan’s labor community.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the committee convened in Parliament House, where it criticized the absence of both the Federal Minister and Secretary of the Ministry, emphasizing the importance of executive accountability. The committee sought comprehensive documentation on the devolution of the WWF, following the Eighteenth Constitutional Amendment, and demanded stronger financial oversight. Concerns were raised over the fund’s Rs.350 billion, currently with the Finance Division, and the committee recommended these be placed in interest-bearing accounts for the benefit of industrial workers.

Inquiries were made about the controversial Zone-V housing project and the lack of an approved policy framework for housing allotments. The committee requested a full report on these irregularities and stressed the need for legal procedures. They also examined labor welfare programs and emphasized improving accessibility to WWF’s digital services. The meeting included various MNAs and senior officials from the Ministry and WWF, who are tasked with providing further details on the fund’s management and assets.