ACE initiates inquiry into ‘irregularities, financial mismanagement’ at KU

Taking notice on a complaint regarding irregularities at the University of Karachi (KU), Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has ordered the Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) to conduct an inquiry.

ACE has sent a letter to the KU authorities calling for personal presence of officials with relevant record for the purpose of the inquiry. Officials said the inquiry committee was formed on financial irregularities at the KU and under the ACE Rules 1993.

A complaint was sent to the Sindh CM office alleging irregularities and financial mismanagement at the varsity. After getting orders from the CM, ACE sent a letter to the KU administration that read: “It is stated that the subject enquiry is being conducted by the Enquiry Committee constituted on the directions of worthy Chief Minister Sindh and with the approval of Competent Authority as per AC Rules 1993.

“Briefly it is alleged by the complainant Madni Raza that due to Vice Chancellor's poor management, illegal appointment of Controller of Examination has been made and fraudulently retired staff has been hired. Moreover, malpractices in examination section and un-justified/ unregulated increase in fees have been made and funds of transport, clean drinking water and development of infrastructure have been embezzled by the Vice Chancellor which has led to the decline of education in Karachi University.

“In view of above material nature of allegations, you are required to attend the office of the Deputy Director ACE East Zone Karachi along with following attested record. “Detail of ADP scheme along with copies of NIT, Tenders, work order MBS, and detail of contractors, detail of M&R along with the expenditure for development and construction, detail of procurement of furniture, laptop and computers, Lab equipments, books and any other.

“Moreover, detail of development projects by the government of Sindh, government of Pakistan, Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, Sindh Higher Education and any other NGO and organization.

“The matter shall be treated urgent and required information shall be supplied immediately. Non-compliance may entail penal consequences U/S 174 PPC and allied laws.” Another letter sent by ACE has called for the record of buses and vehicles owned by the university and expenditure on their repair and maintenance during the past three years, along with details of outsourcing of buses and vehicles used by the varsity and the fuel expenditure.