In a shocking turn of events, Deputy Commissioner Lahore Rafia Haider has come under scrutiny for allegedly violating the Punjab Civil Servants Act 1974 by appointing his spokesperson, Hafiz Qaiser Abbas, as the Assistant Commissioner Headquarters.
This move has raised concerns about nepotism and abuse of power within the provincial administration.
The controversy began when it was revealed following Samaa TV's contact with several high-ranking officers.
According to sources, Deputy Commissioner Rafia Haider personally assigned the additional charge of Assistant Commissioner to Hafiz Qaiser Abbas, who is currently serving as the spokesperson for the Punjab Food Authority and the Deputy Commissioner's office.
This appointment has sparked outrage among critics who argue that such a move goes against the established rules and regulations.
The Punjab Civil Servants Act 1974 clearly states that grade 17 employees can only be charged by the Additional Secretary Administration, and Deputy Commissioners do not have the authority to appoint Assistant Commissioners.
Additionally, Qaiser Abbas's appointment as an ex-Cadre Officer, as per the PMS Rules 2011, has raised questions about his eligibility for the position.
Furthermore, the post of Assistant Commissioner is typically filled through either promotion or direct recruitment following a competitive examination, and these procedures have allegedly been bypassed in this case.
.