MUZAFFARABAD – Highlighting the critical role of ombudsman institutions in addressing administrative lapses and delivering swift justice, the Ombudsman of Azad Jammu & Kashmir a constituent member institution of the Forum of Pakistan Ombudsman (FPO) has taken strict notice of severe departmental negligence by the AJK Zakat & Ushr Department.
The incident came to light after a paralyzed and impoverished citizen, Syed Shabbir Hussain Shah, filed a grievance stating he was denied monthly financial assistance despite repeated applications. When the Ombudsman Secretariat sought an official report from the department, the Zakat & Ushr Department submitted a response claiming the applicant was deceased and therefore ineligible for aid.
To verify the facts, Ombudsman AJK Muhammad Arif Khan Rathore summoned the complainant, who appeared in person to demonstrate that he was alive.
Taking immediate action, Ombudsman Muhammad Arif Khan Rathore summoned the Chief Administrator of Zakat & Ushr to his chamber, expressing severe displeasure over the grave oversight. He directed the department to fix responsibility, initiate strict disciplinary proceedings against negligent officials, and ensure immediate disbursement of monthly financial support to the citizen.
The Forum of Pakistan Ombudsman commends the AJK Ombudsman Secretariat for its vigilant oversight and unwavering commitment to safeguarding public rights and holding administrative bodies accountable.
