LEGAL

Rs 40 Billion Corruption Uncovered at Karachi’s NICVD: Audit Report

Audit reveals alleged Rs 40 billion corruption at Karachi’s NICVD. Sindh govt forms inquiry committee. NICVD says audit observations are routine, calling corruption claims premature.
2025-07-07
Rs 40 Billion Corruption Uncovered at Karachi’s NICVD: Audit Report

A report by the Director General of Audit Sindh has unearthed alleged financial irregularities amounting to Rs 40 billion in the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), Karachi, for the financial year 2023–24.

Following the revelation, Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Pechuho took notice and directed the formation of an inquiry committee to probe the alleged corruption. According to the official notification, the committee comprises the Additional Secretary and Deputy Secretary of the Sindh Health Department and has been tasked to submit its findings within 15 days.

Routine Audit or Massive Scam?

In response, a spokesperson for NICVD issued a statement rejecting the claims of corruption as misleading and premature. The spokesperson clarified that audit observations are a routine part of institutional oversight and are not definitive evidence of financial wrongdoing.

“Audit reports help enhance transparency. Labeling these observations as final proof of corruption before investigation is irresponsible and factually incorrect,” said the NICVD spokesperson.

The institute further explained that several findings in the audit report date back to 2017–18, long before the current Executive Director assumed office in November 2023.

Government’s Position

The Sindh Health Department maintains that the inquiry committee will thoroughly investigate the audit findings, particularly those related to alleged irregularities in appointments, procurement, and use of funds at NICVD.

Background

The NICVD is one of Pakistan’s leading public cardiac healthcare institutions, known for offering free heart treatment. The institution has previously been lauded for its widespread network across Sindh, but recent reports raise concerns over its financial governance.

Observers urge caution until the committee completes its investigation, while civil society groups demand that findings, if confirmed, be made public and action be taken against those responsible.