Islamabad: (RightNow) The Senate subcommittee on devolution has accused the federal government of not fully implementing the 18th Constitutional Amendment. The committee claims that retaining departments meant for provincial transfer is causing an annual loss of 5 to 6 trillion rupees to the national treasury.

During the committee meeting, it was revealed that the review of the federal budget for the fiscal year 2026-27 showed an increase in unnecessary expenditures. The committee deemed the responses from various ministries unsatisfactory and conflicting with constitutional requirements.

The committee suggested that institutions like Railways, Oil and Gas, NEPRA, and OGRA should be managed under the Council of Common Interests (CCI). They demanded the activation of the CCI under Article 154 of the Constitution.

The committee declared the retention of 25 ministries by the federal government unconstitutional and insisted that these institutions be transferred to the provinces. They emphasized that the rights of employees should not be affected by this transfer.

It is noteworthy that the 18th Constitutional Amendment was passed in 2010, transferring powers to the provinces. The complete implementation of the amendment and the role of the CCI remain subjects of constitutional debate.