Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari voiced strong criticism against the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government on Thursday for its significant delay in rolling out the Ramadan aid package. With more than half of the holy month already elapsed, Bokhari expressed disappointment over KP’s failure to begin distribution, highlighting a stark contrast with Punjab’s proactive approach in supporting vulnerable populations during this sacred period.
She elaborated on Punjab’s efforts, noting that the provincial government has already disbursed financial assistance to approximately three million individuals under the Ramadan Nigahban Program. This initiative, launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, aims to alleviate the economic hardships faced by low-income families during Ramadan. Bokhari further revealed plans to extend this support to four million people in the coming days, underscoring Punjab’s commitment to social welfare and community support during the fasting month.
In addition to financial aid, Bokhari praised the Chief Minister’s iftar programs, which provide free meals to thousands daily across various districts of Punjab. These initiatives not only address hunger but also foster a sense of solidarity and compassion among the province’s residents during Ramadan. The minister’s remarks painted a picture of an active and responsive government focused on the needs of its citizens.
Turning her attention to KP, Bokhari criticized the provincial administration for its lack of tangible action. She pointed out that, so far, the KP government has only requested beneficiary lists from members of the National and Provincial Assemblies without commencing actual distribution of aid. This bureaucratic delay, she argued, reflects a deeper issue of mismanagement and misplaced priorities within the PTI-led provincial government.
Moreover, Bokhari accused the KP government of intending to allocate the Rs10 billion Ramadan package funds predominantly to party loyalists rather than the needy population. She suggested that this politicization of relief efforts undermines the spirit of Ramadan and neglects the urgent needs of millions living in KP. The minister also highlighted a lack of coordination among key officials such as Muzamil Aslam and Sohail Afridi, who appear uncertain about the status of the aid distribution process, further indicating administrative inefficiency.
Expressing broader concerns, Bokhari lamented that while the KP government seems preoccupied with the welfare of a single prisoner in Adiala Jail, it is overlooking the pressing socio-economic challenges faced by the province’s approximately 40 million residents. This, she argued, is a clear indication of misplaced priorities and a failure to address the fundamental needs of the people during a time of hardship and religious significance.
In summary, Azma Bokhari’s comments reflect growing frustration over the KP government’s handling of Ramadan relief efforts. Her statements not only highlight Punjab’s proactive measures but also raise important questions about governance, transparency, and political motives in KP’s approach to social welfare during one of the most important months in the Islamic calendar.
