PCC approves chatbot for NGOs, public guidance

LAHORE, Aug 31 (APP): Punjab Charities Commission (PCC) on Monday approved the launch of a chatbot on its website to provide timely guidance and answers to queries from non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the public regarding charitable organisations, during its 25th meeting chaired by Punjab Home Secretary Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi here at the PCC headquarters.

Secretary Housing and PCC Commissioner Noor-ul-Amin Mengal participated in the meeting online, while PCC Commissioner Dr Usama Siddiq also attended. Chief Executive Officer Colonel Shehzad Ameer briefed the meeting on the commission’s performance and future course of action.

The meeting was informed that citizens would be able to use the chatbot to obtain immediate answers to their queries regarding any charitable organisation.

Home Secretary Dr Ahmed directed that charitable organisations registered with the Board of Revenue, Industries Department and Social Welfare Department be uploaded on the PCC portal immediately.

The briefing was told that the commission was maintaining regular contact with 8,113 NGOs operating in Punjab and providing necessary guidance, training and consultation to charitable organisations, trustees and their staff. Training of 1,500 NGOs had recently been completed, while weekly webinar sessions had also been launched for their guidance.

The meeting was informed that work was continuing with NGOs under the Drug-Free Punjab initiative. As many as 25 NGOs had been mobilised for campaigns against professional begging and assistance to genuinely deserving people, while more than 20 NGOs in 10 cities were collaborating in relief efforts for flood victims.

The PCC had also established a monitoring and accountability system for charitable organisations, their administrators and beneficiaries and developed an audit management system for NGOs.

In case of suspicious activities, the concerned charitable organisation could be subjected to an inquiry and audit. Its permission to collect donations could also be cancelled in case of violation of law.

Dr Ahmed said the establishment of a peaceful and harmonious society was a top priority of the Punjab government. He said registration of all charitable organisations with the Punjab Charities Commission was mandatory.

He stressed the importance of trust, transparency and cooperation between the government and civil society, said the PCC was working to maintain public confidence in charitable organisations.

The Home secretary said protection of the rights and interests of charitable organisations and their beneficiaries was the responsibility of the commission and directed all charitable organisations to ensure compliance with laws in the utilisation of charitable funds.