LAHORE: An inquiry committee constituted by the University of the Punjab has identified administrative, financial and regulatory lapses in the affairs of Jamia Town (Town-III) and recommended a forensic audit, restructuring of management and action against those found responsible.

According to the report available with Dawn, the committee concluded that weaknesses in oversight, record-keeping and decision-making processes contributed to irregularities in the development and management of Town-III.

PU Vice Chancellor Dr Muhammad Ali Shah had constituted the committee, headed by Dr Sayyid Salman Rizavi and comprising Dr Nasir Abbas, Dr Shahbaz Ahmad Cheema, Rao Muhammad Tahir Rafique and Secretary Dr Imran Siddique Kaukab to review of the project’s affairs and recommend suggestion for improvement.

The vice chancellor had constituted the committee following complaints and concerns regarding the management of Town-III. The committee completed its review and submitted recommendations after examining available records and administrative practices related to the project.

High court had directed university, LDA to submit report on the project

The report recommended a detailed financial and technical audit of all transactions, contracts and allotments in the housing scheme to establish the extent of irregularities and fix responsibility.

It called for verification of land records, ownership status and allotment procedures to ensure transparency and compliance with rules.

The committee also suggested restructuring the existing management setup, stating that the current administrative framework lacks clarity in roles and accountability. It proposed formation of a reconstituted governing body with defined powers and oversight mechanisms.

Among other recommendations, the report called for strict action against officials found involved in violations of rules, including disciplinary proceedings in accordance with university regulations.

It also proposed legal review of disputed allotments and agreements, with the possibility of cancellation where irregularities were established.

The committee further recommended digitisation of records and implementation of a transparent documentation system to prevent manipulation and loss of data. It emphasised the need for regular monitoring and third-party evaluations to ensure compliance in future development activities.

The report noted that delays in decision-making and absence of effective supervision contributed to governance gaps. It suggested that periodic reporting to the university’s top administration be made mandatory to strengthen oversight.

PU VC Prof Dr Muhammad Ali Shah told Dawn that the case was lying in the high court and it had directed the university and LDA to submit a report on it in the court. He said that he constituted the committee to probe the matter and its report would be submitted in the court and it would decide the project’s future.

Published in Dawn, April 2nd, 2026