In a shocking revelation, Punjab University’s Institute of Education and Research Department has been embroiled in a major corruption scandal. A preliminary inquiry has uncovered financial irregularities, fake recruitments, and mismanagement of resources. This scandal has raised serious concerns about governance and accountability within one of Pakistan’s most prestigious educational institutions.

Key Findings of the Preliminary Inquiry

The inquiry report highlights several alarming issues:

Financial Irregularities

• Six high-value commercial shops were leased out at significantly reduced rates.

• Leases were granted indefinitely, bypassing standard tendering procedures.

• Security deposits meant for the university treasury were allegedly misappropriated by officials.

Fake Recruitments

• Fraudulent appointments were made within the university.

• The case has been referred to the Anti-Corruption Department for further investigation.

Implicated Officials

• Former department head

• An associate professor

• Several staff members

Details of the Lease Scandal

The leasing of commercial shops has become a focal point of the investigation. Below is a summary of the irregularities:

Issue	Details
Lease Rates	Shops leased at significantly reduced rates, causing financial loss to the university.
Tendering Process	Proper procedures were bypassed, favoring specific individuals.
Lease Duration	Leases were granted indefinitely, violating standard policies.
Security Deposits	Funds meant for the university treasury were allegedly misappropriated.

Fake Recruitment Scandal

In addition to financial mismanagement, the inquiry uncovered fraudulent appointments. Key points include:

• The Anti-Corruption Department has been tasked with investigating the matter.

• The scandal has raised questions about the transparency of hiring processes at the university.

Historical Context: Previous Corruption Cases

This is not the first time Punjab University has been involved in corruption allegations. Last year, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Lahore sought to close a long-standing case involving former Vice-Chancellor Dr. Mujahid Kamran and others.

Key Details of the Previous Case

• Accused: Dr. Mujahid Kamran, Dr. Khan Ras, Deeba Akhtar, Dr. Hassan Mubeen, and others.

• Allegations: Serious financial mismanagement and corruption.

• Outcome: NAB cited insufficient evidence and petitioned to dismiss the case.

This case, which had been ongoing for years, remains a significant chapter in the university’s history.

Recommendations from the Inquiry

The preliminary inquiry has made several recommendations to address the issues:

• Conduct a comprehensive investigation into the financial irregularities and fake recruitments.

• Take strict disciplinary action against those found responsible.

• Implement stronger oversight mechanisms to prevent future corruption.

Implications for Punjab University

The scandal has far-reaching consequences:

• Reputation Damage: The university’s credibility as a leading educational institution is at stake.

• Financial Loss: Mismanagement of resources has led to significant financial losses.

• Governance Reforms: The scandal underscores the need for systemic reforms to ensure transparency and accountability.