MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): A special audit report conducted by the Auditor General of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has revealed serious mismanagement of Flood Relief Funds collected in 2022 from government employees’ salaries.
According to the report, over Rs. 24 million were deducted from the salaries of Grade 16 to 22 officers in July 2022, with the aim of providing financial assistance to flood victims in Pakistan and AJK. The funds were transferred to the DDO account of the Prime Minister Secretariat.
However, instead of reaching the flood victims or being returned to the employees, the Flood Relief Funds were deposited back into the government treasury on November 15, 2023 – a move the Auditor General labeled as a clear violation of financial regulations.
The findings are part of a broader audit report for the fiscal year 2024–2025, submitted to the Prime Minister’s Secretariat. The issue was flagged in August 2024 by the Audit and Accounts Section, prompting a departmental meeting in January 2025. During this meeting, the Finance Department was instructed to refund the amount to the employees, but no such action has been taken yet.
One senior government officer, speaking anonymously, admitted he was unaware that the amount deducted from his salary was never used for its intended purpose.
Audit officials have demanded written explanations from the relevant departments and have directed the Accounts Department to return the Flood Relief Funds to the employees, along with proper documentation as proof.
The audit report has sparked public concern and increased pressure for accountability. Citizens are now calling for a full investigation into the mishandling of Flood Relief Funds and for disciplinary action against those responsible.
