Officials penalised in Bibi Pak Daman Shrine inquiry

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LAHORE:

The Punjab Auqaf Department has imposed disciplinary penalties on several former officials of the shrine of Hazrat Bibi Pak Daman after an inquiry found evidence of financial irregularities involving devotees' donations, officials said on Wednesday.

The action was taken under the Punjab Employees Efficiency, Discipline and Accountability (PEEDA) Act, 2006.

A spokesman said the disciplinary proceedings were initiated on the directions of the Auqaf Board and Provincial Minister for Auqaf Chaudhry Shafay Hussain.

The inquiry findings were reviewed by Secretary and Chief Administrator Auqaf Punjab Dr Ehsan Bhutta, who approved the penalties in his capacity as the competent authority.

The inquiry concluded that irregularities had occurred in the management of Nazranas (public donations) entrusted to the shrine, prompting departmental action against officials found responsible.

Former shrine manager Zahid Iqbal was awarded a major penalty that includes the forfeiture of five years of past service and a recovery order of Rs5.39 million.

The inquiry held him responsible for financial losses caused by serious negligence, unusual revenue patterns and failure to conduct and document mandatory inspections.