Unraveling the Rs1.94 Billion Scandal: A Closer Look at the RDA Investigation
Have you ever wondered how large sums of public money can go missing? The recent scandal involving the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) and a staggering Rs1.94 billion embezzlement case has left many shaking their heads in disbelief. This story unfolded in early May 2023, revealing a complex web of financial mismanagement that dates back over six years.
Recently, the Punjab Chief Secretary’s inquiry committee decided to take matters into its own hands by summoning eight current RDA employees and two retired officials to appear in Lahore for questioning. These hearings, scheduled for August 8, will mark the sixth round of inquiries. It’s puzzling, though—despite the gravity of the situation, senior figures like the former Director General and Directors of Administration and Finance have yet to be called for questioning. Instead, the focus has predominantly been on junior staff members.
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) is also involved, but so far, their investigation hasn’t revealed significant breakthroughs. In fact, an internal RDA inquiry committee was set up just a fortnight ago to determine whether funds, which were supposed to be secured in bank accounts, were improperly transferred. Alarmingly, reports indicate that Rs1.29 billion worth of Call Deposit Receipts (CDRs) are unaccounted for, and the bank hesitates to restore these funds without the NAB’s official direction.
What has become evident is that Rs1.94 billion had already been transferred to other accounts well before the scandal was made public. Yet, the internal inquiry committee at RDA hasn’t finalized its report even after two and a half weeks—a delay that has raised eyebrows among those invested in the outcome.
Among those summoned for inquiry are key financial roles within the RDA, including Deputy Director (Finance) Muhammad Masood Arshad and Assistant Director (Finance) Waqar Asghar Raja, alongside several accountants and clerks. Interestingly, both retired officials, Asif Mahmood Janjua and Khawaja Arshad Javed, have also been called back to answer for their past tenures.
As the investigation continues, the RDA has taken some steps toward reforming its financial practices. They’ve halted any irregular promotions and are working on a revised financial authority framework. This reflects a commitment to not just accountability, but also to restoring trust within the organization and the community.
The unfolding drama of the RDA embezzlement case is a crucial reminder of the importance of financial transparency and accountability in public institutions. For those keen on keeping up with developments in governance and financial integrity, connecting with platforms like Pro21st could provide valuable insights and updates. Stay informed; it’s our collective responsibility to ensure public funds are managed with the utmost integrity.
