Sindh Social Welfare Minister Shabbir Qaimkhani has asked the district food programme committees to ensure proper functioning of the committee and distribution of food support to the needy. He was presiding over a meeting of the steering committee of district food support programme in his office on Wednesday. He said the district co-ordination officers and the nazims were responsible for its regular meeting.

They should ensure that the steering committees meet regularly and carry out their functions to the entire satisfaction of the people they are supposed to help.

Qaimkhani said that beneficiaries had complained him that they had not received Rs1200 per month for the last six months.

The beneficiaries have also complained that the post offices have not issued them passbooks to record payments.

He said in view of increasing reports of corruption, he had asked DCOs to conduct inquiries in their respective jurisdictions and submit reports for necessary actions.

The officials concerned informed the minister that Rs 261.6 million had been distributed to mustahaqeen in 20 districts of Sindh including five towns of Karachi from Baitul Maal under 9th instalment under district-wise food support programme.

It was also brought into the notice of the minister that Rs 15 million was lying unclaimed in Karachi and Mithi. This should be distributed among the needy. Besides, 21,000 people are still to be registered.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2005