**Punjab Arts Council Employees Urge Chief Minister to Reverse Senior Officers’ Transfers**
In a significant move reflecting concern over administrative instability, 27 employees of the Punjab Arts Council have petitioned the Chief Minister of Punjab, along with the Minister for Information and Culture and the Secretary Information and Culture, to reverse the recent transfer orders of two senior officers, Mughees Bin Aziz and Maqbool Ahmed Rana. The collective appeal underscores a broader dissatisfaction within the council, citing issues of external interference and alleged favoritism impacting the integrity and morale of the institution.
According to the staff, the Punjab Arts Council is experiencing a climate of uncertainty, with both junior and senior employees facing instability as a result of decisions influenced by outside forces. Employees allege that ongoing lobbying efforts, personal biases, and favoritism from certain internal groups have led to the undermining of departmental norms and the unfair scapegoating of competent officers.
Staff members specifically criticize the transfer of Maqbool Ahmed Rana, claiming it violates both standard regulations and Supreme Court directives by moving him from a single-cadre post to another cadre inappropriately. The appeal further alleges that recently regularized officers within the department have exploited inaccuracies and falsified documentation to sway administrative decisions in their favor, thereby compromising institutional balance.
Both Mughees Bin Aziz and Maqbool Ahmed Rana were cited for their professionalism and exemplary service records, with employees affirming that their leadership is both recognized and respected throughout the Punjab Arts Council’s headquarters and regional offices. The petitioners warn that the removal of these officers not only risks setting a harmful precedent but could also undermine the motivation for honest service across the department.
Expressing frustration, the staff note that while they previously had channels to air their grievances, these recent developments have left them marginalized and concerned for the council’s future. The letter concludes with a strong plea for the authorities to rescind the transfer orders, arguing that such a step would uphold institutional stability, protect staff welfare, and safeguard the professional integrity of the Punjab Arts Council.
