A major recruitment scandal has surfaced in the Rawalpindi District Health Authority, where 1,562 illegal appointments have reportedly been made, including 1,500 sanitary patrol workers and 62 entomologists, according to official sources.
Details reveal serious irregularities in the hiring process, which was conducted despite the Punjab government’s lack of approval. Although an advertisement for the positions was issued in March 2024, recruitment proceeded even after the fiscal year ended, based on the old advertisement.
The recruitment committee was formed on July 30, 2024, and astonishingly, all 4,800 candidate interviews were completed the very next day, July 31, with selections finalized on the same day. Appointment letters for all 1,562 hires were also issued within 24 hours, raising serious concerns over transparency.
Former Director of Health Services, Dr. Ansar Ishaq, filed a formal complaint, prompting the formation of a three-member inquiry committee headed by Dr. Moiz Manzoor. However, more than a year later, the inquiry report has still not been made public despite multiple reminders.
The Punjab Health and Population Department issued a notification on September 11, 2025, directing the committee to submit its report within 48 hours, but even after 27 days, no progress has been made. Attempts to contact the committee chairman have reportedly failed, and the inquiry remains stalled.
Sources within the health department have expressed frustration over the delay and alleged political influence behind the recruitment process. They have demanded a transparent investigation and strict action against those responsible.
