PESHAWAR (MNN); Questions have been raised over alleged administrative negligence and favouritism in the recruitment process for the post of Assistant Sub-Inspector (BPS-11) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Excise and Taxation Department.
According to details, the position for Zone Five was advertised in 2021. However, the written examination was conducted on February 15, 2025 — more than three years after the advertisement.
Ibrahim Ali Baloch emerged as the top scorer, securing 92 out of 100 marks. He not only topped in Zone Five but also achieved the highest marks across the entire province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Despite his outstanding performance, Baloch allegedly did not receive an interview call letter following the examination. After waiting for a response, he approached the Peshawar High Court seeking relief.
On the court’s directions to the Excise Department, an interview letter dated January 13, 2026 was issued, scheduling his interview for January 21, 2026. He appeared before the interview panel on the specified date.
However, despite completing the interview process, he has not been issued an offer letter to date. It has now been found that the said post is being filled by another allegedly favoured candidate, further intensifying concerns over transparency and merit in the recruitment process.
The development has triggered criticism regarding governance standards and fairness in public sector hiring in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
