Punjab launches charities commission headquarters

Lahore, July 11: Punjab Home Secretary Dr. Ahmed Javed Qazi officially inaugurated the new headquarters of the Punjab Charities Commission, marking a significant step toward strengthening the regulation, transparency, and accountability of charitable organizations operating across the province.

During the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Qazi toured various sections of the newly established office and met with the commission’s newly recruited officers. Equipped with modern facilities, the new headquarters has been designed to improve the commission’s operational capacity and enhance its ability to monitor and support registered charitable organizations.

On the occasion, Chief Executive Officer Colonel (Retired) Shahzad Ameer briefed the Home Secretary on the commission’s performance, achievements, and future plans. He highlighted several initiatives aimed at improving governance within the charitable sector, including the development of an effective audit management system for non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

According to the briefing, the Punjab Charities Commission is providing comprehensive guidance and advisory services to charitable organizations, their trustees, and staff to help them comply with legal and regulatory requirements. Officials stated that the commission has established a structured system to ensure the monitoring, accountability, and transparency of charities, their management, and the beneficiaries they serve.

The briefing further explained that under the existing legal framework, the commission has the authority to investigate and audit any charitable organization if suspicious activities are detected. In cases where organizations violate relevant laws or regulations, the commission can revoke their permission to collect public donations, ensuring that charitable funds are used responsibly and lawfully.

Addressing the newly inducted officers of the Punjab Charities Commission, Dr. Ahmed Javed Qazi emphasized that establishing a peaceful, inclusive, and harmonious society remains one of the Punjab government’s highest priorities. He said that building relationships based on trust, transparency, and cooperation between the government and civil society is essential for achieving sustainable social development.

The Home Secretary noted that the Punjab Charities Commission is actively working to maintain and strengthen public confidence in charitable organizations. He stressed that registration with the Punjab Charities Commission is mandatory for all charitable organizations operating in Punjab, adding that the government is continuously enhancing the commission’s institutional capacity to improve oversight and service delivery.

Dr. Qazi reminded officers that safeguarding the rights and interests of charitable organizations, as well as the people who benefit from their services, is one of their primary responsibilities. He described public service within the commission as a form of worship, saying that officials have a unique opportunity to support society’s most vulnerable and deserving communities through their work.

He also urged all charitable organizations to ensure full compliance with the law in the collection, management, and utilization of charitable funds. According to Dr. Qazi, transparency and accountability are essential for maintaining public trust and ensuring that donations reach those who genuinely need assistance.

The Home Secretary further stated that the Punjab Charities Commission provides guidance throughout every stage of establishing and legally operating a charitable organization. To improve outreach and assist NGOs more effectively, he directed the commission to launch weekly webinar sessions where organizations can receive training, legal guidance, and answers to regulatory questions.

Senior officials from the commission’s Audit, Information Technology, Administration, and Enforcement Departments attended the inauguration ceremony, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening oversight of the charitable sector while promoting responsible philanthropy and effective public service across Punjab.