FIA uncovers corruption scandal at PARC

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has registered a case against 19 officers of the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), including the council’s chairman, Ghulam Muhammad Ali. The officers are accused of corruption, nepotism, and financial malpractice, resulting in significant losses to the national exchequer.

According to the FIR, the case centers on irregularities in the recruitment process at PARC, with 168 individuals reportedly hired illegally. This includes an increase in vacancies from 164 to 332, a significant jump that raises concerns over the transparency of the appointments.

The charges against the senior officers, including the chairman, are severe and involve multiple sections of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), including sections 34 (common intention), 109 (abetment), 409 (criminal breach of trust), 468 (forgery), 471 (using forged documents), and 5(2)47 of the Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA).

The case alleges that the officers used their positions to benefit family members and close associates, who were hired in violation of standard recruitment procedures. The FIA’s investigation further claims that the national treasury suffered losses amounting to millions of rupees due to these corrupt practices.

Sources within the FIA confirmed that investigations are still ongoing, and more officials from PARC are expected to be questioned in the coming weeks. This high-profile case highlights growing concerns over corruption in Pakistan’s public sector institutions and the need for stricter oversight and accountability.

The FIA has vowed to continue its investigation and bring all responsible parties to justice, promising that no one, regardless of their position, will be spared if found guilty.

Also read: Two anti-corruption officers arrested for bribery