BY:SHAHID JAN
BAJAUR: A major financial scandal involving Rs 7.08 million has surfaced in the Bajaur Education Department’s Female Section, where officials allegedly colluded to siphon funds meant for teachers’ salaries. The irregularities center around the Primary Teachers Certificate (PTC) fund, where fake teachers were included in payroll lists while legitimate names were removed.
According to official documents and sources, the Bajaur Women’s Education Department had requested Rs 57.2 million from the Elementary and Secondary Education Department to cover 1,870 months’ salaries for 292 PTC teachers. The department approved and released Rs 47.57 million. However, during the disbursement process, auditors discovered fraudulent entries—including payments to non-existent teachers and unexplained omissions of actual staff.
Shockingly, one individual was listed as simultaneously working in four different schools across four tehsils, while 23 legitimate teachers were mysteriously excluded from the payroll. The Accounts Office intervened, blocking payments for 275 months’ worth of suspicious salary claims.
A district administration inquiry committee confirmed that 67 fake teachers had been fraudulently added to the payroll. Preliminary findings suggest the involvement of the Female Education Officer (EDO), the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) of Khar’s female education wing, a Senior Account Clerk, and a CT teacher serving as an ADOPND. These officials allegedly conspired to include 42 fake teachers, attempting to defraud the national exchequer of Rs 70.08 million.
The investigation, now in its final stages, is expected to release its findings within days. When contacted by Pakhtun Digital, the Female EDO—who assumed office three months ago—claimed he had identified and halted illegal payments. “The inquiry is ongoing, and those responsible will be exposed soon,” he said.
Meanwhile, Education Department officials are trading accusations over responsibility for the scam. The final inquiry report will determine who orchestrated the fraudulent recruitment and salary payments.
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