In a surprising turn of events, the Islamabad Capital Territory administration has retracted the No-Objection Certificate (NOC) granted to Shaukat Khanum Memorial Trust, forbidding the organization from hosting a fundraising event in Islamabad. The event, aimed at garnering support for an upcoming cancer facility in Karachi, faced cancellation without clear reasons provided by the authorities.
Shaukat Khanum’s top management, including officials like the Additional District Magistrate, made futile attempts to obtain permission, but bureaucratic hurdles persisted. The event’s cancellation, as per ICT administration, is linked to stipulations imposed by international monetary institutions, mandating charitable organizations to disclose donor details and undergo audits.
Contradicting the administration’s stance, Shaukat Khanum Memorial Hospital vehemently refuted the claims. The hospital clarified that it was never asked for the required information and emphasized the availability of all necessary details, including donor information and audits, on its official website.
This unexpected clash between a prestigious healthcare institution and regulatory authorities not only raises questions about transparency and fundraising regulations but also highlights the challenges faced by charitable organizations in navigating bureaucratic complexities. As the controversy unfolds, the implications for the fundraising landscape and charitable initiatives remain to be seen.
