PBM Sewing Machine Scandal: PKR 60 Million Inquiry Completed, Action Against 40 Officials

Islamabad: (News Desk) – The Senate Sub-Committee on Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety met today under the convenership of Senator Rubina Qaimkhani, along with Senator Dost Ali Jeesar, to review administrative and policy matters within Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal (PBM).

The Chair expressed serious concern over non-compliance of directives issued on 10th October 2025 and reiterated on 16th April 2026, noting that compliance reports remain unsubmitted. The Chair observed that the MD, being a Senator, understands ground realities, and remarked that the Committee formulates policy while the department implements it.

The Secretary briefed the Committee, stating that PBM has approximately 5,000 employees recruited over different periods. A government directive on right-sizing has been received, pursuant to which 60% of seats have been declared dormant or abolished after Board approval. He stated that due to this, promotions were delayed, but now that right-sizing has been done, promotions will happen soon. He further stated that some time will be required in this matter. He observed that the General Cadre has more personnel, so their career path should be larger, and that administration, IT, and medical sides need segregation, but rules are not being implemented where required.

Senator Dost Ali Jeesar highlighted that excess employees cause financial strain and raised points on administrative structure and rule implementation.

Senate Panel Expresses Concern Over Non-Compliance in Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal Affairs

The Committee scrutinized 191 illegal promotion cases, reaffirming they stand declared void ab initio. Cases of Mr. Kashif Nadeem and Mr. Bilal Anwar were also declared void ab initio with recovery of illegal benefits. Regarding Mr. Zafar Khan Safdar, the Committee directed annulment of his illegal reinstatement, recovery of salaries, and references to FIA and NAB. The Committee noted that 41 officers have been denied promotion for 12 to 22 years despite 52 vacant posts, violating a Supreme Court judgment, and directed issuance of promotion notifications with full arrears. All new hiring is halted until a transparent promotion process is finalized.

On procurement, the MD reported that an inquiry into sewing machines worth PKR 60 million has been completed, with explanations notices issued to 40 individuals and final action within 15 days. PBM remains liable for financial irregularities totalling PKR 335 million; a recovery plan under the Public Money Act, 2001 remains overdue.

Regarding the fake degree of Mr. Rizwan Ahmed, confirmed by HEC, the Committee directed nullification of his appointment, an FIA reference, and constitution of a fresh inquiry committee. The MD informed that action will be carried out very soon, as he has recently received the inquiry to conclude on it.

The Committee discussed an E-filing system to prevent missing files and requested a briefing on Women Empowerment Centres.

The Chair concluded that directives of 10th October 2025 and 16th April 2026 remain in effect. Failure to implement shall result in direct references to NAB, FIA, Auditor General, Prime Minister, and Chairman Senate. No further extension shall be granted.

The meeting was attended by the Secretary, Ministry of Poverty Alleviation & Social Safety, Managing Director, Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal, and other senior officials.