ISLAMABAD: The Mi­­n­­istry of Science and Te­­chnology has initiated an inquiry into alleged irregularities in the national standards control body. The inquiry was initiated after the Federal Ombudsman issued an order regarding the recruitment process for BS-01 to BS-04 positions in the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA). The ombudsman’s office, which investigates maladministration in any federal government agencies, had directed the ministry to take action and ensure accountability and transparency in the recruitment process. Following the directives, the ministry’s secretary has appointed Shakil Arshad, DSA (Commercia­lisation), as probe officer. Mr Arshad will submit the investigation report and recommendations to the ministry’s senior officials within 15 days. As per the terms of reference, the probe will determine the identities and positions of those allegedly involved in the recruitment, assess the degree of culpability of each individual and prepare a detailed charge sheet along with a statement of allegations. The inquiry committee will also review related records concerning the recruitment process. The report is expected to shed light on the allegations and offer a detailed analysis of the recruitment practices within the ministry. A copy of the findings by the ombudsman secretariat has been provided to the probe officer to guide the investigation. The ombudsman issued orders for the probe after a complaint was filed by a man named Irfanullah. The complainant raised concerns over the recr-uitment procedures and alle­ged violations of establish­­ed protocols by PSQCA.