LAHORE: The Punjab government has launched what it describes as a decisive phase of its campaign against corruption, with 54 officials suspended or dismissed, while several others have been arrested and cases registered against them.

The action was initiated on the direction of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, with departments told to take action against officials allegedly involved in corrupt practices, says a handout.

The Food Department emerged as a major focus of the crackdown, with 48 officials facing action. In Bahawalpur, six food grain inspectors were dismissed from service. Several officials in Gujranwala were also dismissed.

The department has initiated disciplinary proceedings against 14 food controllers over allegations of corruption.

Meanwhile, the Anti-Corruption Establishment has stepped up arrests and registration of cases against the officials allegedly involved in corrupt practices.

In Gujranwala, a case was registered against a Parks and Horticulture Authority field officer who was also arrested.

Published in Dawn, September 6th, 2026