The PTI government has prided itself that no major scandal has been unearthed so far regarding any massive financial irregularities or embezzlement. The recent reports of misappropriation in the PM’s Covid relief fund, highlighted in a report by the Auditor General, has raised grave concerns.
The government was reportedly held on the report for nearly six months and it was released after pressure from the IMF before the global financial institution releases its next tranche. The finding of the reports shows showed misprocurements, payments to ineligible beneficiaries, cash withdrawal through fake accounts and provision of substandard goods by Utility Stores Corporation (USC).
The figures are rather staggering, disclosing over Rs40 billion irregularities. This includes Rs25 bn in the Ehsaas programme, the flagship project of the PTI government, and Rs5.2 bn in the procurement of ghee, flour and essential items at utility stores. There were also dubious allocations for loans and grants received from foreign agencies for dealing with COVID-19.
The government has rejected the report which exposed billions of rupees in irregularities. SAPM Sania Nishtar, who heads the Ehsaas initiative, has denied graft allegations in the social programme. The federal cabinet has challenged the report and wants a post-audit to clear the scheme. It is imperative that an impartial probe should be launched in the matter to address the serious allegations.
The government had launched the Ehsaas Emergency Cash programme under unusual circumstances during the coronavirus pandemic. It has launched a scheme to provide essential items at subsidised rates. The reports of any misappropriation, corruption or irregularities has raised doubts over the entire social security programmes.
The prime minister should take strict notice of the irregularities and those involved should be brought to task. It is important to restore confidence in the initiatives for public welfare. The failure or inability to do so will have grave repercussions. The prime minister has time and again said the nation has been robbed by previous regimes. This is a test case to ensure that there is accountability for public funds and also maintain relations with global donors before we are isolated once again.
