CM Maryam Nawaz’s “corruption-free Punjab” drive leads to action against Layyah revenue officials

In line with Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz’s vision of a “Corruption-Free Punjab,” the district administration of Layyah has intensified

LAHORE: In line with Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz’s vision of a “Corruption-Free Punjab,” the district administration of Layyah has intensified its crackdown on alleged corruption, bribery and misconduct in the revenue department, resulting in the dismissal of one patwari and the suspension of three other officials.

According to official orders issued by the offices of the Assistant Commissioners of Layyah, Karor Lal Eason and Choubara, disciplinary action has been initiated against several patwaris and kanungos over allegations involving corruption, misconduct, inefficiency and misuse of authority.

Among the major actions taken, Muhammad Shakeel Akhtar, a patwari posted at the NSK Branch of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Layyah, was initially suspended and subsequently dismissed from service following his arrest by the Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) in connection with FIR No. 18/2026, registered on June 17, 2026.

The administration also suspended Ghulam Murtaza, Patwari Halqa Simbli Ibra, who was additionally holding charge of Circle 108/TDA. The action was taken by the Assistant Commissioner Karor Lal Eason on August 29, 2026, on grounds of alleged misconduct and inefficiency.

Another patwari, Pervez Hussain of Choubara, was suspended on September 1, 2026, following his alleged apprehension by the Anti-Corruption Establishment Layyah in a trap case.

In addition to the patwaris, a kanungo was also suspended as part of the ongoing disciplinary action against revenue officials. The administration has further taken steps against another kanungo and a patwari by handing them over to the NAB Court Inspector.

Officials said an FIR has also been registered against one patwari and a petition writer in connection with alleged irregularities, while an RTA clerk reportedly surrendered in relation to corruption charges.

The orders, issued in the public interest, require the suspended officials to report to their respective offices immediately in accordance with the directives. Copies of the orders have been forwarded to the Deputy Commissioner Layyah, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) and relevant tehsildars for information and necessary compliance.

The district administration said the latest action forms part of the Punjab government’s broader policy of adopting a zero-tolerance approach toward corruption in public institutions.

Revenue-related matters, particularly land records, transfers, ownership issues and other property-related services, directly affect citizens. Officials said eliminating corrupt practices from the revenue system is therefore essential for ensuring transparent and efficient delivery of public services.

The administration maintained that disciplinary and legal proceedings would continue against officials found involved in bribery, misuse of official authority, misconduct or unnecessary delays in dealing with public matters.

Further inquiries into the reported cases are currently underway. Officials indicated that additional action could follow if investigations establish the involvement of other individuals.

The crackdown reflects the provincial government’s stated effort to strengthen accountability within departments that have direct interaction with the public and ensure that government services are delivered without illegal payments, undue influence or unnecessary procedural delays.

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