ISLAMABAD, Nov 19 (APP): The National Assembly Standing Committee on Zakat and Ushr Thursday expressed concern over the poor disbursement of funds among the needy by local Zakat committees.The committee, which met here under the chairmanship of MNA Khawaja Sheraz Mehmood, showed concern over suspension of ‘Guzara Allowance’ for the last 20 months by the Provincial Zakat Council, Punjab.The meeting decided that the Provincial Zakat Council, Punjab would be invited in the next meeting of the Committee to brief it over suspension of Guzara Allowance in Punjab.

Earlier, the committee was informed that the Guzara Allowance has been suspended in Punjab province for the last 20 months by the Council.

The committee asked the Ministry of Zakat and Ushr to devise an effective mechanism ensure disbursement of funds in more transparent manner and enhance the utilization of Zakat Fund.

The committee also sought the details of Zakat disbursement of last five years among the deserving people province-wise along with their names and address.

The committee called for evolving an effective strategy to monitor the disbursement of Zakat fund and also asked the concerned quarters to take steps for the expansion of Zakat collection base.

The Secretary, Ministry of Zakat and Ushr briefed the Committee on working and functioning of the ministry. He informed that the Zakat fund is allocated to the provinces on population basis and the Ministry is making efforts to improve Zakat disbursement system.

The meeting was attended by MNAs, Farhat Khan, Sardar Muhammad Mushtaq Khan, Shaheen Ishfaq, Qudsia Arshad, Malik Ibrar Ahmad, Sheikh Salahuddin, Pir Dilawar Shah and Abdul Malik Wazir.