Unapproved Salary Hike that Triggers Concerns
It has been reported that the Chairman and members of the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) raised their pay by Rs. 2 million to 2.2 million without prior approval of the federal cabinet. This is a hike of more than 220%.
Violation of Norms
Sources say the increase has been done in the name of ad-hoc relief and regulatory allowances ignoring the October 2023 salary cap of over Rs. 1 million. The pay of the Chairman now goes above Rs. 3.2 million, while members take home Rs. 2.9 million each.
Former Chairman’s Comments
Tauseef H. Farooqui, the ex-Chairman, said that his salary was Rs. 790,000 before August 2023, and NEPRA members used to earn Rs. 740,000. He stressed that nothing can be hiked unless the federal cabinet gives its approval.
Calls for Accountability
Critics have coincided in demanding transparency and presenting evidence that this only comes through independent external audits.