The Social Insurance Organisation (SIO) has recently announced that they are reaching out to participants in the Khatwa programme for Home-based Projects who have added previous service periods and have been verified as meeting all requirements. The SIO has begun contacting those who meet the legal requirements after reviewing all documents and notes, while also contacting those who do not meet the requirements to initiate legal settlement procedures. The organization is emphasizing the importance of cooperation in protecting retirement fund assets, promoting transparency and accountability, and safeguarding the rights of subscribers.
In response to concerns about misuse of pension and social insurance funds, the Ministerial Committee for Legal and Legislative Affairs recently announced the suspension of retirement pensions for violators of the Khatwa Programme for Home-based Projects who unlawfully added previous service periods under voluntary insurance. This decision, effective January 2025, aims to ensure that the program benefits eligible citizens and prevents any misuse of funds. The committee has reviewed 1,413 cases of participants in the programme who added previous service periods, with 1,094 providing the required documents and clarifications within the given timeframe.
The committee has also highlighted the government’s commitment to implementing the recommendations of the National Audit Office’s investigative review of the Khatwa programme. Violations uncovered included offences under the Penal Code and Social Insurance Law, such as forgery and collusion to unlawfully obtain compensation, pensions, or benefits. The penalties for these offences could be severe, with individuals facing up to 10 years in prison as stipulated by law.
It is crucial for all parties involved to cooperate in order to ensure the protection of retirement fund assets, promote transparency, and safeguard the rights of subscribers. By contacting participants who have met the legal requirements and initiating legal settlement procedures for those who have not, the SIO is taking steps to uphold the integrity of the Khatwa programme for Home-based Projects. The committee’s review of cases and the suspension of retirement pensions for violators demonstrate the government’s commitment to addressing any misuse of pension and social insurance funds.
In conclusion, the recent actions taken by the SIO and the Ministerial Committee for Legal and Legislative Affairs highlight the importance of compliance with legal and regulatory requirements in the Khatwa programme for Home-based Projects. By verifying participants’ eligibility and taking steps to address violations, the authorities are working to protect retirement fund assets and prevent misuse of pension and social insurance funds. It is essential for all parties to cooperate in these efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and the public interest, while safeguarding the rights of subscribers.