The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Education Department has cancelled the appointments of 35 female primary school teachers in Dera Ismail Khan after declaring their appointment letters invalid over alleged irregularities in recruitment records. Officials have also ordered the recovery of salaries paid to the women from the government treasury.
According to a notification issued by District Education Officer (Female) Syeda Anjum, the action followed an inquiry into the teachers’ appointment documents, service records, payroll details, and places of posting. The department said it was unable to verify their appointments and establish that they had been performing their duties at the schools or offices where they were reportedly posted.
The inquiry reportedly found that the names of the 35 women remained on the government payroll despite questions about their employment records and physical presence at their assigned workplaces. The department also stated that attempts to verify their postings and addresses had not produced the required information.
Officials had previously issued public notices asking the individuals concerned to provide their appointment letters, selection records, joining reports, posting orders, and other relevant documents. Following the departmental proceedings, the appointments were declared invalid from the outset.
The education authorities have directed the relevant officials to prepare a complete record of the salaries paid to the women and initiate recovery proceedings to return the amount to the government treasury. They have also ordered legal proceedings against those allegedly involved in the disputed appointments, while the matter has been referred to the relevant authorities for further action.
According to reports, the appointments were made in 2022, while the departmental inquiry began in August 2026. The latest action highlights the importance of verifying recruitment documents, maintaining accurate service records, and ensuring that public funds are used for legitimate government employment.
The case is part of broader efforts by the education authorities to address suspected irregularities in public-sector recruitment and salary payments. Further legal action is expected as the relevant departments proceed with the investigation.
