Govt Investigates Allegations of Nepotism and Misconduct in KP Culture & Tourism Authority.

BY: M. Ilyas

ISLAMABAD– The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture, Tourism, Archaeology, and Museums Department has launched an inquiry into serious allegations of nepotism, favoritism, and misconduct within the KP Culture & Tourism Authority (KPCTA). The investigation, ordered by the Secretary of the Culture, Tourism, Archaeology, and Museums Department, was initiated following a complaint received from the Office of the Advisor to the Chief Minister KP for Culture and Tourism. The inquiry, spearheaded by the Deputy Secretary of Tourism, aims to scrutinize a series of alleged irregularities involving Ms. Sanam Bashir, who currently holds the position of Additional Director Admin. The accusations pertain to her appointment process, qualifications, and the transparency of her professional conduct.

*1. Irregular Appointment as Additional Director Admin*
Ms. Sanam Bashir’s appointment reportedly contravenes Section 31 of the Tourism Act 2019 and the Appointment & Conditions of Service Regulations 2020. The prescribed procedures necessitate appointments through initial recruitment, deputation, or transfer, based on qualifications and experience specified in Schedule 1. However, the process for her appointment allegedly deviated from these requirements. The department demands documents outlining the prescribed procedure, eligibility criteria, and the selection process details.

*2. Questionable Qualifications and Selection Process*
Ms. Sanam Bashir’s appointment as an Information Officer in the Tourism Corporation KP (TCKP) also raises concerns. Allegations include procedural lapses during her initial contract and irregularities in the advertisement and selection process for the Information Officer position. There are claims that her academic qualifications and experience did not meet the requisite standards. Documentation of her marks, recruitment advertisements, and approval processes is required to verify the legitimacy of her selection.

*3. Abuse of Authority*
Instances have been reported where Ms. Sanam Bashir allegedly misused her authority, invoking personal connections with security agencies and political figures to influence staff members. This conduct has reportedly fostered an environment of fear and favoritism. The inquiry seeks her Performance Evaluation Reports (PERs) for the last three years.

*4. Misuse of Designation*
Ms. Sanam Bashir is accused of leveraging her position for personal gain, disrupting the organizational structure, and promoting favoritism. PERs from the last three years are requested for further examination.

*5. Lack of Accountability and Transparency*
The inquiry highlights Ms. Sanam Bashir’s alleged use of unauthorized channels to seek favors, pointing to possible corruption and ethical misconduct. PERs from the past three years are needed to assess these claims.

*6. Operationalization of PTDC*
Concerns about Ms. Sanam Bashir’s management of Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) properties have been raised. Allegations include improper fund retrieval and lack of accountability in supervisory roles. Detailed expenditure records and income reports from PTDC properties are requested.

*7. Missing Vehicles and Off-the-Record Bookings*
There are allegations of missing vehicles assigned to the Tourism Police and unrecorded bookings in PTDCs, suggesting systemic irregularities. Details of these vehicles are needed for the investigation.

*8. Excessive Foreign Tours*
Ms. Sanam’s foreign tours have incurred significant expenditures, raising questions about their necessity and fiscal responsibility. Detailed records of these trips and related expenses are required.

*9. Unjustified Traveling Allowance/Daily Allowance (TA/DA)*
Ms. Sanam allegedly claimed up to 3.6 million PKR in TA/DA in the previous financial year without proper documentation. The inquiry calls for verification of these claims, including visit reports and task assignments.

*10. Contingent Appointments and Misuse of Properties*
The appointment of individuals on a contingent basis and the alleged misuse of properties for personal purposes are also under scrutiny. Documentation related to these issues is essential for the investigation. The department has requested all relevant records and documents to proceed with the inquiry. This investigation underscores the KP government’s commitment to maintaining transparency, accountability, and meritocracy within its institutions. The Deputy Secretary of Tourism, Culture, Tourism, Archaeology, and Museums Department will be overseeing this investigation, with findings expected to shape future administrative practices within the department.