Karachi, January 26, 2025:
On the occasion of International Customs Day, Pakistan Customs reiterated its commitment to improving efficiency and security. However, the event was marred by apparent mismanagement on the part of the Customs event team, raising serious concerns about organizational capabilities.
Students from Customs Public School, accompanied by their teachers, principal, and administrative staff, arrived at the Customs Parade area at 8:00 a.m. to participate in the celebrations. Despite their energetic performances of national songs and the anthem, the students were reportedly deprived of basic necessities like food and water throughout the event. The administrative staff expressed their grievances to the organizing committee, highlighting the neglect of young participants who contributed significantly to the day’s activities.
Adding to the controversy, it was revealed that Deputy Collector HQ S.M. Raza Naqvi, the head of the organizing committee, had approved an advance payment of Rs. 4 million for catering services. However, the event’s catering arrangements seemed grossly inadequate. With fewer than 100 VIPs present and limited snacks and bakery items available for lower staff, questions arose regarding the legitimacy of the hefty catering bill.
The alleged mismanagement and the possibility of corruption in the catering expenses have drawn criticism. Deputy Collector Raza Naqvi has so far remained unresponsive to queries about the insufficient food arrangements and the disproportionately large catering bill.
This incident has not only overshadowed the spirit of International Customs Day but has also raised serious concerns about accountability within the organizing committee.
