Editorial — Republic Policy
In Pakistan, conversations on corruption usually revolve around sensational scandals, bribery deals, and commission rackets. Yet the more dangerous form of corruption is where the malpractice is not even recognised as corruption. Punjab’s powerful Services & General Administration Department (S&GAD) stands as the clearest example of this silent, institutionalised corruption — where the misuse of public resources is seen as an “entitlement” rather than a violation.
Follow Republic Policy Website
S&GAD is the central hub for distributing housing, vehicles, fuel, plots, loans, and welfare schemes. In government housing allotments, official rules rarely move beyond paperwork. Connections, recommendations, and influence decide the outcomes. Lavish spending on repairs and maintenance often exceeds real needs, with virtually no accountability.
Follow Republic Policy YouTube
The same is true for vehicles and fuel. Government cars are routinely used for personal purposes, while petrol expenses remain unchecked due to a complete lack of monitoring. Plot allotments and welfare schemes, although presented as public service initiatives, have become reward systems for a select circle of officers. Loans and financial facilities are easily accessible for the privileged few, while the majority of employees are effectively locked out.
Follow Republic Policy Twitter
The most striking concern is that even officers regarded as “honest” see this as their right. In such an environment, the definition of corruption narrows so much that the non-transparent use of public resources becomes normalised. This mindset is not limited to S&GAD; it reflects the structural flaws of our governance model, where the line between legal and illegal corruption has been erased.
Follow Republic Policy Facebook
What makes S&GAD uniquely powerful is not just its perks but its control over the Cabinet Wing, officer postings, transfers, policy formulation, and even legislative drafting. This department is the epicentre of bureaucratic authority in Punjab. Without transparency, accountability, and merit-based reform in S&GAD, genuine governance reform in the province will remain an illusion. If the source of authority remains unreformed, every other reform will be partial and fragile — leaving the state machinery as a tool for personal comfort rather than public service.
Follow Republic Policy TikTok
