Punjab moves to shield charity funds from misuse, tightens NGO scrutiny

LAHORE:  The Punjab Charities Commission has stepped up efforts to improve transparency, accountability and legal compliance among charitable organisations and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), with officials reviewing monitoring mechanisms and enforcement measures during the commission’s 26th meeting on Saturday.

Secretary Home Punjab Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi chaired the meeting, which focused on strengthening regulatory oversight, preventing financial misconduct and ensuring that charitable funds reach their intended beneficiaries. Secretary Housing and Punjab Charities Commission Commissioner Noor-ul-Amin Mengal joined the meeting online, while Commissioner Dr Usama Siddique attended in person. Chief Executive Officer Colonel Shehzad Amir briefed participants on the commission’s performance, ongoing initiatives and future plans.

Officials told the meeting that the commission maintains regular contact with 8,345 NGOs operating across Punjab and continues to provide them with training and guidance to help identify and prevent financial risks, including money laundering and terrorist financing.

The commission has introduced an audit management system to improve financial transparency and prevent the misuse of charitable organisations for illegal activities. The system aims to strengthen financial oversight and ensure that organisations manage donations responsibly and in accordance with applicable laws.

The meeting also reviewed mechanisms for monitoring charitable organisations, their administrators, trustees and beneficiaries. Under the existing framework, the commission examines suspicious activities through inquiries and audits to identify potential violations and hold organisations accountable.

Officials said the commission could revoke an organisation’s authorisation to collect donations if it violates the law. The regulatory body has also initiated inquiries and enforcement proceedings against NGOs suspected of non-compliance, reinforcing its efforts to ensure that charitable activities remain within the legal framework.

Alongside enforcement, the commission is working to improve the operational capacity of charitable organisations by offering training, consultation and guidance to trustees, administrators and staff. It has also developed a support system featuring a chatbot and a risk-based assessment framework to help organisations understand regulatory requirements and fulfil their obligations.

Addressing the meeting, Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi stressed that establishing a peaceful and harmonious society remains a key priority of the Punjab government. He said all charitable organisations operating in the province must register with the Punjab Charities Commission and comply with the laws governing their activities.

The secretary emphasised that transparency, mutual trust and cooperation between the government and civil society were essential to building effective partnerships and maintaining public confidence in charitable organisations. He said the commission had an important role in protecting the rights and interests of both charities and the people they serve.

Dr Qazi directed charitable organisations to ensure the lawful and transparent use of donations and other charitable funds. He underscored the need for responsible financial management so that contributions serve their intended purposes and reach deserving beneficiaries.

He also instructed the commission to continue strengthening its regulatory functions while providing practical assistance and guidance to charitable organisations. The secretary said effective oversight should go hand in hand with facilitating lawful charitable work, enabling organisations to operate responsibly while protecting public interest.

The meeting concluded with an emphasis on stronger monitoring, improved compliance and continued cooperation between the commission and charitable organisations to safeguard donations and maintain public trust in the sector.