SHANGLA: The local government and rural development department has reconstituted an inquiry committee to investigate allegations of misuse of public funds in development projects executed in Shangla district between 2018 and 2026.

According to a notification issued by the secretary of the department and chairman of local council board, the inquiry will cover development schemes undertaken by various tehsil municipal administrations and assistant director in Shangla during the period.

The committee has been formed in response to a complaint lodged by Fazal Mabood, alias Siyasi Baghi, son of Alam Khan, a resident of Amanwi in Alpuri tehsil of Shangla.

The notification stated that the committee would examine allegations of financial irregularities and determine whether public funds allocated for development projects had been misused.

The chief planning officer of the department has been appointed the chairman of the committee while section officer and audit officer of the department are its members.

The inquiry committee has been tasked with reviewing all relevant official records and documents related to development schemes in question. It will also establish the facts surrounding the allegations and identify officials and employees found responsible for any irregularities. The committee has been directed to submit a comprehensive report to competent authority within two weeks, along with clear findings and recommendations.

The reconstitution of the committee comes amid allegations of financial mismanagement in development projects carried out in the district over the past several years.

The inquiry is expected to examine the implementation of schemes, utilisation of allocated funds and the role of officials concerned in executing the projects.

The notification did not specify the amount of funds allegedly misappropriated or identify any officials suspected of involvement in the alleged irregularities.

The allegations have yet to be established, and the inquiry committee will determine responsibility after examining the relevant record and facts.

Published in Dawn, November 10th, 2026