THE Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) stands as a beacon of hope, a sincere endeavour aimed at inviting investment from our friendly nations. In this intricate dance of international relations, it plays a pivotal role, not just in bolstering economic activity but also in nurturing the bonds between people. Currently, our nation enjoys strong friendships with Saudi Arabia, Turkey and China, making these partnerships the cornerstone of our economic growth and diplomatic ties.
SIFC, a joint initiative uniting civil and military forces, has proven its mettle by swiftly navigating the labyrinth of bureaucracy. It has orchestrated a series of meetings and forged agreements with our allies, all with the mission of attracting investments. At the helm of these deliberations stood the Army Chief, a linchpin in our fight against smuggling, terrorism, and the menace of illegal Afghan nationals in Pakistan. These challenges, orchestrated by our adversaries, demanded rapid and resolute decisions – decisions that the SIFC made with finesse and determination.
Yet, in the realm of investments, tranquillity is paramount. SIFC recognized this fundamental truth and embarked on a journey to dismantle the bureaucratic barriers. The antiquated notions of red tape have been replaced by the innovative concepts of the “One Window” and “Under One Roof” approach. These strategies, often hailed in the bureaucratic circles, have streamlined the investment process, making it not only lucrative but also efficient for our friendly nations.
However, the path to progress has not been without its share of obstacles. Our nation witnessed the erosion of esteemed institutions like PIA, WAPDA, and Railways due to unchecked privileges, leading to financial haemorrhages. The Administrative Civil Service, once a symbol of prestige, faced criticisms for its inability to curb smuggling, price hikes and hoarding. Even the lowest tier of this service, represented by the Patwari, became a cause célèbre in legal battles, further tarnishing the bureaucratic image.
Adding to these woes were the instances of bureaucracy being unfairly targeted. Investigations by institutions like NAB, often leading to unwarranted incarcerations, sent shockwaves through the bureaucratic corridors. Such events, including the humiliation of respected professionals like Medical Doctors and Vice Chancellors, inflicted deep wounds on the morale of our bureaucracy.
The consequences were dire. The Central Superior Services examination, a beacon of hope for aspiring civil servants, witnessed a sharp decline in qualified candidates. The erosion of morale, coupled with the withdrawal of due perks, created a disillusioned workforce. In the face of these challenges, justice calls for the restoration of bureaucratic rights and, perhaps more importantly, the reinstatement of their morale.
In conclusion, as a retired Additional Chief Secretary of AJK and Advocate Supreme Court of AJK, I stand witness to these trials and tribulations. SIFC, with its noble mission, embodies the aspirations of a nation striving for economic prosperity and diplomatic harmony. It is not merely a council; it is a testament to our resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
—The writer is Retired Additional Chief Secretary and Advocate Supreme Court of AJK.
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