ISLAMABAD: A bill titled the “Toshakhana (Management and Regulation) Act, 2023” was presented in the Senate. The bill proposes that if a Toshakhana gift is not deposited in the repository within the specified time, a fine of five times the value of the gift will be imposed.
The Cabinet Division established Toshakhana in 1974. It stores precious gifts given to rulers, parliamentarians, bureaucrats, and officials by foreign dignitaries.
According to the Toshakhana rules, individuals to whom Toshakhana rules apply must report gifts received to the Cabinet Division.
The bill applies to various public office holders, including the president, prime minister, governors, ministers, members of the armed forces, and judiciary. Similarly, the bill also encompasses their spouses and children.
The legislation states that individuals must deposit a non-perishable item as a gift in the Toshakhana. These items are received from a local or foreign dignitary or company. It excludes cash given as tips to officers of certain ranks.
Section 3 of the bill requires gifts received by public office holders or private individuals as part of an official delegation to be deposited in the Toshakhana within the prescribed time limit.
Failure to comply with this provision or abetting the contravention would result in a fine equal to five times the assessed market value of the gift.
It tasks the division assigned to handle matters concerning this Act for managing and regulating the Toshakhana. It will also be responsible for implementing necessary measures as prescribed.
Regardless of any other existing law, the bill states that information regarding the Toshakhana will be accessible for inspection. It will be subject to specific conditions and regulations.
The bill will be referred to the relevant committee in the Senate. If the committee approves it, the bill will be further considered by the upper House of Parliament.
