ISLAMABAD: A petition has been filed in the Islamabad High Court against officials of the Ministry of Planning over allegations of demanding bribes in connection with the alleged withholding of payments worth millions of rupees.
According to details, contractors and companies approached the court, claiming that three officials of the ministry were allegedly involved in demanding bribes for the release of outstanding dues.
The court has issued pre-admission notices to the Secretary of the Ministry of Planning and other respondents, according to a written order issued by Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro.
Allegations over delayed payments
The petition states that contractors’ legitimate payments are being withheld despite completion of work and submission of relevant documentation, including work orders and billing records. It further alleges that officials demanded bribes in exchange for processing the payments.
The petitioners have requested the court to direct the ministry to release outstanding dues amounting to millions of rupees and declare the officials’ conduct illegal, biased, and an abuse of authority.
Court proceedings
The Islamabad High Court has sought responses from the relevant parties at the pre-admission stage. Further proceedings will be held after receipt of replies.
The case has brought renewed attention to allegations of corruption and administrative delays in government payment systems.
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