ISLAMABAD: The pensioners of the National Institute of Historical and Cultural Research (NIHCR) in Islamabad continue to face financial hardships as the Federal Ombudsman has been unable to secure the necessary funds from the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to pay their due pensions and allowances. Despite seeking redress from the Ombudsman, the pensioners have been met with delays and rejection, leaving their grievances unresolved.

According to National Institute of Historical and Cultural Research, the NIHCR, a Centre of Excellence under Quaid-i-Azam University, has experienced significant financial constraints since the fiscal year 2021-22. The HEC, tasked with budgetary allocations, has consistently reduced funding, affecting both current employees and pensioners. This shortfall has resulted in unpaid entitlements, including house rent ceiling arrears pending since July 2021, arrears of gratuity and leave encashment, implementation of adhoc reliefs announced in federal budgets since 2021-22, and medical allowance and reimbursement for retired employees.

Despite evidence of maladministration, the Federal Ombudsman has been ineffective in securing relief for the NIHCR pensioners. Initial decisions in favor of the pensioners were ultimately overturned, leaving the Ombudsman unable to enforce its decisions. Consequently, the institution's recommendations are often ignored by implementing authorities.

The pensioners demand the rightful payment of gratuity, monthly pension, and arrears for pending allowances. The failure of the Ombudsman to direct the HEC to release funds or provide a bailout package has left them financially vulnerable. The situation underscores a growing concern about the Ombudsman's ability to protect citizens from maladministration and fulfill its mandate.

The NIHCR pensioners have called on the Federal Ombudsman to review its decisions and urged the HEC Chairman to intervene. They argue that pensioners should not have to beg for their dues after decades of service to the nation's academic and cultural heritage. The ongoing delay in justice raises questions about the effectiveness of the Ombudsman, as the pensioners continue to await a resolution.