Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the compulsory retirement of Dr Aneela Salman, a Grade 20 officer of the Pakistan Administrative Service (PAS), after an inquiry found that she remained absent from duty after her approved leave ended.
According to an Establishment Division notification, disciplinary proceedings against the officer began on February 9, 2026, under the Civil Servants (Efficiency and Discipline) Rules, 2020. The inquiry established the charges, leading to compulsory retirement with immediate effect.
Dr Salman had been on extraordinary leave without pay while living abroad. Her leave was extended for another nine months in October 2024. However, after the extended period ended, she did not return to Pakistan, submit a joining report or resume her government duties, according to the notification.
The decision is a major penalty under the applicable service rules. However, Dr Salman has the right to appeal the decision within 30 days of the notification.
