By M Iqbal
LAHORE: A committee formed to investigate the alleged irregular appointment of Punjab Revenue Authority’s (PRA) Director IT has yet to submit its findings, despite being constituted two months ago. The appointment in question dates back nearly a decade.
Sources revealed that PRA Chairman Nauman Yousaf established an inquiry committee on February 6, 2025, led by Director Ayesha Ranjha, to examine the appointment credentials of Director IT Salman Zafar. The committee was initially tasked to present its report within two weeks, but no findings have been submitted so far.
Prior to this, in January 2025, Chairman Nauman Yousaf had constituted a separate three-member committee led by PRA Commissioner Gujranwala Zaigham Abbas to verify the academic qualifications and appointment process of Zafar.
However, Commissioner Abbas reportedly recused himself from the investigation, after which the current committee under Director Ranjha was formed.
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According to sources, Salman Zafar is said to be a close relative of a senior bureaucrat and was appointed as Director IT at PRA in 2015. As per the eligibility criteria for the role, a degree in Computer Science or Information Technology is required.
However, it has been claimed that Zafar holds a BSc in Electrical Engineering.
Sources further allege that Zafar attempted to secure regularization into Grade-19 recently, but the committee not only denied the request but also called for a full review of his initial appointment.
His current contractual term is set to expire later this month, and he is reportedly seeking a renewal through administrative influence.
In addition to his primary role, PRA granted Zafar the additional charge of Director Administration two years ago. His current monthly salary is reportedly Rs. 500,000, excluding other benefits.
Officials estimate that the financial cost to the national exchequer due to this appointment has exceeded Rs60 million. PRA administration maintains that the appointment is under review and any decision will be taken in accordance with legal procedures and institutional regulations.
The report is based on information from credible sources. The allegations mentioned are under investigation, and no final conclusion has been drawn by the authorities as of yet.
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