The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has filed a major case against Tariq Malik, the former head of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), and 12 other senior officials over alleged financial mismanagement in the authority’s smart card project.
The case stems from a complaint submitted by Transparency International, which raised concerns about irregularities in the multibillion-rupee initiative. The watchdog highlighted flawed procurement methods and suspected corruption in the awarding of contracts.
As stated in the First Information Report (FIR), the accused—among them the chief project officer—are believed to have violated several rules of the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PEPRA). The FIA claims these actions led to large overpayments to a specific company involved in the smart card supply chain.
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Investigators say the smart cards were purchased at prices much higher than market value. Evidence reportedly points to repeated manipulation of the tendering process to favour one vendor, causing significant financial harm to the national treasury.
FIA officials added that the case involves accusations of misuse of power, dishonest conduct, and intentional misrepresentation in official matters. The agency is continuing its inquiry and may expand the investigation to include more individuals connected to the project.