The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of parliament has directed the interior ministry to investigate the leakage of citizens’ data by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).
During the committee meeting, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) was instructed to block the leaked data. The PAC has also ordered a joint investigation by the interior ministry, PTA, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and Military Intelligence to determine the cause of the data leak. The committee expressed concern about the availability of personal data on the internet, including that of military officials.
In another matter, the absence of the religious affairs secretary during the PAC meeting regarding Hajj arrangements drew criticism from the committee. The religious affairs ministry officials explained that the secretary had returned from Saudi Arabia and was feeling unwell. The PAC summoned the religious affairs secretary for the next meeting to address complaints about Hajj mismanagement.
Additionally, the committee ordered an inquiry into the alleged abuse and mismanagement of Pakistani pilgrims who faced difficulties due to the unavailability of transport in Makkah. Private Hajj operators were also asked to be investigated. The committee sought an explanation from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) regarding illegal profiteering by eight banks that allegedly made illegal profits by opening letters of credit. The committee expressed dissatisfaction with the SBP for not providing information on the action taken against these banks.
