In a shocking turn of events, Pakistan’s Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Chairman Habib-ur-Rehman-Gillani tendered his resignation on May 2. Citing “personal reasons” in his resignation letter addressed to the Secretary, Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Pakistan, Gillani stepped down from his position.
However, sources revealed that Gillani’s resignation might have been prompted by his recent whistleblowing on alleged corruption within the ETPB. The corruption reportedly involved a senior officer who enjoys the support of senior ministers in the Pakistan government. The issue came to light during the visit of an Indian Sikh jatha in the recent past.
It was discovered that large-scale corruption occurred in the currency exchange rates for Indian devotees. The Indian visitors were being given Pakistani Rs 275 for Indian Rs 100, while in Kartarpur, Pakistan, the same visitors received Pakistani Rs 325 for every Indian Rs 100. Gillani raised the issue, resulting in mounting pressure from the ruling government, which ultimately led to his resignation.
The ETPB is a significant organization in Pakistan, as it serves as the parent body of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee and Project Management Unit. These entities are responsible for the administration and arrangements of Gurdwara’s, temples, and the Kartarpur Corridor in Pakistan. The importance of ETPB’s role is evident in past appointments, such as former ISI chief Javed Nasir serving as the chairman.
Gillani’s resignation has brought attention to the alleged corruption and the influence of senior ministers in the Pakistan government. It remains to be seen how this situation will unfold and what impact it may have on the ETPB’s future operations and leadership.
