Public Accounts Committee flags financial irregularities in various ministries

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Thursday discussed the lapse of economic grants of Rs58 billion and expressed concern over the issue and noted similar financial irregularities across various ministries. During the meeting, finance secretary Imdadullah Bosal said that funds were surrendered by May 31 every year. However, the PAC Chairman Junaid Akbar suggested that the surrender be done earlier. PAC member Sanaullah Khan Mastikhel criticised the financial management, stating that those requesting excessive funds should be held accountable. He pointed out that appointments were often made based on favouritism rather than on merit. Chairman Junaid Akbar Khan announced the formation of three new subcommittees within PAC. The first subcommittee would be convened by Tariq Fazal Chaudhry and Sanaullah Khan Mastikhel, Rana Qasim Noon, and Hina Rabbani Khar would be its members.