KP govt launches inquiry against ex-DGHS

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has launched an inquiry against former Director General of Health and Services, Dr Shaukat Ali, over allegations of corruption, irregularities in appointments, and procurement of land and equipment for the newly established Dir Medical College in Timergara, Lower Dir district.

Dr Shaukat Ali was suspended by the provincial government following accusations from a health department employee who claimed that Dr Ali’s staff demanded bribes for facilitating his transfer.

In an official notification issued by the provincial health department, it was stated, “The competent authority (Secretary Health, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) is pleased to constitute a fact-finding inquiry committee to probe into the complaint lodged by Atiqur Rahman and Wahidullah, residents of Dir (Lower), against the irregularities at Timergara Medical College Dir Lower and submit its report along with recommendations within seven days positively.”

The fact-finding committee is chaired by Dr Abid Hussain, Management Cadre (BS-20), Additional Director General (M&E) at Directorate General, with Ibrahim Khan, Deputy Secretary (Drugs) Health Department, as a member.

Dr Shaukat Ali was already under investigation by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) for alleged misuse of power and irregularities in land purchase for Dir Medical College.Speculation surrounds the composition of the fact-finding committee, with concerns raised about the inclusion of junior rank officers in the investigation against Dr Shaukat Ali.