Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari has described the increase in rape cases in the province as alarming, while denying that overall crime has risen. Speaking at a press conference in Lahore, she said she felt sorry for journalists who reported a rise in crime.
Bukhari criticises journalists over crime reporting
Bukhari said senior journalists should check facts before sharing material on social media. Her criticism was directed at reporters who had written about a rise in crime. She claimed many people were trying to undermine the chief minister out of jealousy, and accused prominent journalists of relying on reports circulated by propaganda cells.
Government response on rape cases and vehicle theft
Bukhari acknowledged the rise in rape cases and called it a serious concern. She said Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual violence.
The minister also claimed motor vehicle theft had dropped by 75%, and said the overall crime rate had fallen into negative territory.
