Punjab Charities Commission holds 26th meeting; in touch with 8,345 NGOs

LAHORE: The 26th meeting of the Punjab Charities Commission was held under the chairmanship of Punjab Home Secretary Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi.

Secretary Housing and Commissioner Punjab Charities Commission Noor ul Amin Mengal attended the meeting online. Commissioner Punjab Charities Commission Dr Usama Siddique also attended. Chief Executive Officer Colonel Shahzad Amir briefed the meeting on the commission’s performance and future plans.

Details of the briefing

The briefing was told that the commission is working on a plan to build the capacity of NGOs across Punjab and is in constant contact with 8,345 NGOs in the province. NGOs are being trained to protect themselves against risks such as money laundering and terror financing.

The meeting was informed that an audit management system has been put in place to promote transparency in charities and to prevent money laundering and the misuse of NGOs by terrorists. A system for monitoring and accountability of charities, their administrators and beneficiaries is also in place.

In case of suspicious activity, the charity concerned is inquired into and audited. In case of violation of the law, the permission given to any charity to collect donations can be cancelled.

Charities, trustees and staff are being given the necessary guidance, training and advice. The commission is guiding charities through a comprehensive system that includes a chatbot and a risk-based assessment framework. The meeting was also briefed on inquiries and enforcement actions against NGOs that violate the law.

Home Secretary’s instructions

Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi said that building a peaceful and harmonious society is the top priority of the Punjab government. All charities in Punjab must be registered with the Charities Commission.

He said relations between the government and civil society, based on mutual trust, transparency and cooperation, are essential. The commission is working to maintain public trust in charities.

The Home Secretary warned that protecting the rights and interests of charities and beneficiaries is the commission’s responsibility. He directed all charities to ensure compliance with the law in using charitable funds. He also directed the commission to continue measures to facilitate and guide charities while performing its duties as a regulator.