PESHAWAR (Syed Kashif-ud-din): The national exchequer has reportedly suffered a loss of Rs 550 million due to financial irregularities at Lady Reading Hospital (LRH) in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It was revealed that the hospital purchased air conditioners at prices approximately 200% higher than the market rate.
Despite the inquiry report being submitted to the Board of Governors (BOG), no effective action has been taken against those responsible for the alleged misconduct. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Department has issued a notice instructing the hospital director to take action against the Associate Hospital Director, Tariq Bargi, and HR Director, Yousuf Jamal.
The inquiry committee report raises serious allegations against these officials. A complaint filed by Assistant Professor Dr Alauddin to the Chief Minister details these findings. According to the report, the financial irregularities have led to significant losses to the government exchequer, primarily due to inflated prices for necessary purchases.
The petition demands the recovery of the allegedly embezzled funds and a full investigation into the financial losses incurred. It calls for immediate disciplinary action to be taken against the responsible officers according to the rules and regulations, a review of salaries and benefits received during the period of corruption, and legal action where warranted. Additionally, it requests an independent and transparent review of the Board of Governors’ role to ensure institutional accountability.
In response to these complaints, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Department has directed the Hospital Director of Lady Reading Hospital to take appropriate measures. The letter instructs that the requests received should be processed according to established rules, and a report should be submitted accordingly.
