The Punjab Assembly on Wednesday approved 10 demands for grants totaling Rs270.53 billion for various government departments, following the provincial finance minister's conclusion of the budget debate by defending the government's fiscal priorities, development spending, and governance record. The session, chaired by Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, commenced after a delay of two hours and 42 minutes.
Finance Minister Defends Budget
Winding up the debate on the provincial budget for the next fiscal year, Finance Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman rejected opposition criticism and highlighted what he described as the government's achievements in revenue generation, development expenditure, and social welfare. The minister stated that Punjab had achieved 99 percent of its revenue collection target during the outgoing fiscal year and utilized 93 percent of its development budget. He noted that the province had contributed Rs546 billion to the federation for national prosperity and would extend further support if required.
Development Priorities and Allocations
Highlighting development priorities, Rehman said Rs556 billion had been allocated for 387 schemes in South Punjab, while Rs38 billion had been earmarked for the riverine (Katcha) areas. He added that Rs5 billion had been allocated for the Dhee Rani Programme, Rs12.5 billion for the Kissan Card scheme, and Rs29 billion for the Health Card programme, which he maintained had not been abolished but further improved.
Rejection of Corruption Allegations
Rehman also rejected opposition allegations of corruption, claiming that international assessments showed Pakistan's corruption ranking had improved by four places during the incumbent government's tenure compared to the previous administration. He criticized the opposition leadership for what he termed an ill-prepared participation in the budget debate and urged PTI leaders to apologize for the May 9 riots, arguing that political reconciliation would remain difficult without accountability for those events.
Political Exchanges and Heated Debate
The budget debate was accompanied by heated political exchanges. During discussion on cut motions relating to the Home Department and police, opposition lawmaker Shoaib Ameer warned that if his party returned to power and ruling party lawmakers did not face hardships similar to those allegedly endured by PTI workers, he would resign from the assembly. Referring to the treatment of PTI activists, he said government supporters would face comparable consequences in the future. Responding sharply, the finance minister said he had no desire to see anyone harmed and would regret any injury to political workers, but reminded the opposition of the events of May 9 and their consequences. He also told the opposition that none of the court cases against PTI leaders and workers were framed by the PML-N government, and they were also aware of this fact.
Approval of Grants and Adjournment
Later, the House approved demands for grants relating to the Specialised Healthcare and Medical Education Department, School Education Department, Police, Communications and Works Department, Local Government Department, and other sectors, amounting to Rs270.53 billion. The opposition's five cut motions were rejected. Panel of Chairpersons member Samiullah Khan subsequently adjourned the session until Saturday at 1pm.
NIPP Conference Pledges Commitment to Ending Sectarianism
In a separate development, a conference of the National Interfaith Peace and Harmony (NIPP) pledged commitment to ending sectarianism and incitement, promoting interfaith dialogue and harmony.
